CONFERENCING Your complete guide to conferencing and corporate hospitality in Ireland
BUSINESS CONFIDENCE Google, Intel, IBM, Emirates, Microsoft, Accenture, Oracle, KPMG and Teradata are some of the most dynamic giants of today’s business world.
this professionalism has won us no less than 25 industry awards.
They all share a relentless commitment to innovation, service and excellence. So it’s not surprising that they’ve hosted events somewhere with an identical attitude: The Convention Centre Dublin.
Located in Dublin’s rejuvenated docklands – home to many of the capital’s most progressive companies – The CCD has 18,500 hotel rooms nearby, Dublin Airport only 15 minutes away and one of Europe’s most vibrant cities on its doorstep.
The CCD distils all the forward-thinking attitudes that now make Dublin so attractive to world-class businesses like Facebook, Kellogg’s, Pfizer plus many others. And since we opened our doors in 2010,
So if you want a world-class venue for your next event, visit www.theccd.ie today. You’ll soon see why we’ve inspired such confidence in some very inspiring companies.
Contact our Sales Team on: T: +353 1 856 0000 E: sales@theccd.ie W: www.theccd.ie
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CONFERENCING 2014 – YOUR COMPLETE GUIDE TO CORPORATE HOSPITALITY IN IRELAND
DUBLIN INSPIRES:
2014
Welcoming
THE WORLD The Convention Centre Dublin One Young World 2014 Promoting youth leadership • Making it Memorable Engaging Your Delegates • Covering the Costs Attract event sponsorship • Identity Parade Expanding corporate identities • PLUS A comprehensive directory of Ireland’s best conferencing venues
11/04/2014 18:47:49
Aviva Stadium Where Ireland Does Business
Make Your Next Event Stand Out A purpose built conference and event venue which marries a spectacular event space with an award winning team to deliver outstanding results At Aviva Stadium we plan corporate meetings, car launches, exhibitions, award ceremonies and association conferences. Guests have dined amongst the newest vehicles in our Atrium and collected prizes on the impressive stage sets in the 1872 suite. Clients have created supermarket aisles in our President’s Suite and raced Formula 1 cars in the tunnel. Aviva Stadium’s Meeting and Events team create memorable corporate events with the added wow factor. The versatility and scale of the venue means we can accommodate an extensive range of events within our 50 event spaces. Call our sales team today and let Aviva Stadium make your next event stand out.
s e c n e r e f n Co 4 1 0 2 22nd May 2014
I just want to say a big thank you to all of the staff at the Aviva Stadium for helping us ensure that the Intouch event last week ran brilliantly. The facilities were perfect for what we were trying to do coupled with efficient an friendly service. The delegates commented particularly on the excellent quality of the food served over the three days so please pass our thanks to the catering team. Ciaran Budds, Diageo
2014
An enormous thank you to the team at Aviva Stadium for your huge efforts in making our Gathering for Action Conference such a success. Your help with planning; at the walk through stage and throughout the execution of a very complex two day programme was invaluable. Yve O’Driscoll British Irish Chamber of Commerce
Radisson Blu Royal Hotel Dublin
A full-day conference, the HR Directors Business Event will explore HR’s role in fostering innovation. Contributors will include leading HR experts and senior business leaders, giving you the ultimate bench marking experience and best practice insights.
11TH June
Retail Conference Camden Court Hotel, Dublin
This practical, informative full day event will focus on how the business sector and individual retailers can inspire and best connect with consumers. Delegates will be provided with a unique opportunity to listen and learn from industry gurus and experienced practitioners and to network with fellow retail colleagues.
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2014
12TH June 2014
Supply Chain Management & Procurement Event Camden Court Hotel, Dublin
The Legal Services Regulatory Authority – What to Expect In association with McDowell Purcell Solicitors
Radisson Blu Royal Hotel Dublin
The various amendments adopted at the Select Committee stage in the Oireachtas mean that many provisions of the Legal Services (Regulation) Bill 2011 are now significantly different to those initially proposed. With a strong likelihood that the Bill will come into force within the next twelve months, this half day conference will provide a comprehensive update on recent changes to the Bill and will be of interest to all practising solicitors and barristers, in-house counsel, regulatory bodies, judges, consumer rights groups, legal costs accountants, insurers, court and departmental officials and all other parties involved in the administration of justice in Ireland. 18TH June 2014
The Supply Chain Management & Procurement Event will unravel the issues facing modern supply chains and examine how firms can improve the efficiency and effectiveness of its procurement processes.
Phone: 01-238 2388 Email: sales@avivastadiumevents.ie www.avivastadiumevents.ie
28TH May
HR Director’s Business Event
Change to State Pension Age and Challenge to Mandatory Retirement Radisson Blu Royal Hotel Dublin
This half day conference will examine how increases in State Pension Age will inevitably result in employees seeking to work beyond the age of 65 which, for many employers, has traditionally been the normal contractual retirement age. An expert panel will examine what employers should do when faced with such requests, or indeed, what happens if an employee challenges an employer’s entitlement to retire him/ her at age 65.
For more information on any of these conferences, contact denise.maguire@ashvillemediagroup.com or call 01 432 2238
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Contents Conferencing 2014
01
16
Contents 03 08
Money Matters Getting the most out of your budget.
Perfect Ten Some useful steps to take when organising a conference.
16
33
22
52
26
54
A Great Success Rachel Murray looks back on the successful Gathering tourism initiative. Creating Connections UK firm Blendology have introduced an interesting and innovative technology. Setting the Scene We examine six different layouts to maximise attendee experience.
30
Team Building Creating a solid team can work wonders for business.
33
One Young World We take a look at the international event due to hit Irish shores later this year.
39
A-Z of Conferencing Useful tips on how to organise your event.
42
Safety First Some tips to ensure your event procedes smoothly.
45 48
Making it Memorable The best in post-conference tactics.
Spread the Word Conferencing puts together a six-month plan to successfully market your conference.
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Technological Tools We take a look at some of the latest online technological tools that event planners can take advantage of this year.
Identity Parade Conferencing explores the various methods of expanding corporate identities throughout a conference.
58
Event Sponsorship Attracting event sponsorship can help cover the gaps in your budget.
60
Technology Trends The trends tipped for success in 2014.
52
64
The Lighter Side Inspiring and fun ways to keep your delegates intrigued.
67
Congregation The more unusual location of Cong, Co Mayo played host to a conference with a twist last summer.
70
Dates for your Diary Some interesting events taking place this year in Ireland.
81
Venue Directory
Your essential guide to Ireland’s top conferencing venues. From audio-visual services to entertainment options, this comprehensive directory covers it all. Use our detailed listings to compare facilities at-a-glance and find the location that best serves all of your conferencing needs.
53 08/04/2014 14:39:23
Editor’s Letter Conferencing 2014
CONFERENCING
2014 Editor Conor Forrest Contributors Rachel Murray Design Alan McArthur Jane Matthews Design Assistant Aoife Loy Advert Design Jennifer Reid, Alan McArthur Editorial & Production Manager Mary Connaughton Production Executive Jennifer Reid Managing Director Diarmaid Lennon Sales Director Paul Clemenson Published by Ashville Media Group Old Stone Building Blackhall Green Dublin 7 Tel: +353 (0) 1 432 2200 Fax: +353 (0) 1 676 6043 Web: www.ashville.com
No part of this may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means without written permission from the publisher. Opinions and comments expressed herein are not necessarily those of Conferencing 2014. While every effort has been made to ensure that the information contained within this publication is correct at the time of going to press, Ashville Media Group accept no responsibility whatsoever for any inaccuracies that may occur. © 2014
Letter from the Editor Welcome to Conferencing 2014, the definitive guide to conferencing and corporate hospitality in Ireland. This edition is bursting with advice and recommendations for conferences and events of all shapes and sizes. One of the biggest initiatives of the past year has been The Gathering, an attempt to encourage friends, family and anyone else with a connection or affinity for Ireland to visit the country and take part in a series of major and minor events. Rachel Murray takes a look back at this initiative, and asks whether it accomplished what it set out to achieve. Elsewhere, this October Dublin will host the One Young World Summit 2014, held in various locations across the capital including the Convention Centre and Croke Park. The summit, which has been up and running since 2009, aims to promote and develop leadership qualities in the current generation, examining issues which effect the world, and presenting and debating possible solutions. I look at the One Young World organisation and consider what they hope to achieve with the conference. As always, Conferencing examines the best ways to organise and conduct a conference or event. The conferencing Perfect Ten will fill you in on the basic ingredients that make a successful conference. We also look at getting the best out of your budget, tips for securing event sponsorship, unique ways of making your event memorable and how to ensure your team and attendees stay safe. Also, why not check out our tips for using technology as a means of organising and promoting your conference? With so many advancements in the tech sphere, deciding to continue solely along traditional routes can leave you lagging behind. We examine start-up offerings and options already on the market which can make life a little less stressful for the event organiser. While on the topic of technology, we also examine the latest trends, as the industry predicts what will be popular in 2014. Our unique Venue Directory also provides detailed listings to ensure you will find the perfect solution to meet your accommodation, leisure and conference needs. I hope you enjoy Conferencing 2014 and find the essential tips to make your conference a successful one. Conor Forrest Editor
CONFERENCING Your complete guide to conferencing and corporate hospitality in Ireland
2014
Welcoming
THE WORLD The Convention Centre Dublin One Young World 2014 Promoting youth leadership • Making it Memorable Engaging Your Delegates • Covering the Costs How to attract event sponsorship • Identity Parade Expanding corporate identities • PLUS A comprehensive directory of Ireland’s best conferencing venues
001 Conf2014_Contents+Eds.indd 2
Image courtesy The Convention Centre Dublin.
2
11/04/2014 18:29:18
Money Matters Conferencing 2014
MONEY MATTERS
Though news on the economic front is becoming gradually more positive, times are still tough, and getting the most from your budget remains one of the top challenges for conference organisers. Conferencing 2014 takes a look at what costs need to be considered.
03
that will allow clients to deliver a professional business experience to their delegates.
Keeping to your budget The challenge for a conference organiser working from a tight budget is finding a venue that meets your needs for a reasonable price, without compromising any aspect of your plan. From the beginning it is vital that you know how much you have available to spend on your event. You need to determine which expenses will be assumed by the client or sponsor and by the attendees. Estimate how many people you expect
A
lthough the benefits of holding conferences have been proven, sometimes the cost can deter
clients from committing. The main aim for a conference or event, therefore, must be to provide a quality service at an economical rate; one that will attract organisers and fight off the competition.
to attend your conference and calculate your overall expenditure by separating your variable and fixed costs. Remember to control your costs at every turn and constantly keep an eye on your finances so you can ensure a successful conference that is within your budget.
Organisers need to keep an eye out for conference packages that include accommodation, meals, transport to and from the hotel/venue and perhaps a leisure activity.
Tailor-made packages It is important to understand the nature of the business and offer valuefor-money conferencing packages with competitive prices and a top rate service. From the time a guest arrives at the venue until the time they depart, outstanding hospitality needs to be provided discreetly and effectively by the hotel’s dedicated team. Event organisers should be offered a tailor-made conference package with no hidden extra costs. Hosting a conference in a city centre location can also keep costs
EXPECT THE BEST, BUT PLAN FOR THE WORST. Budgets should include a contingency fund (about ten per cent) for unanticipated, lastminute expenses.
003 Conf2014_Money Matters.indd 3
lower for attendees as they are close to inexpensive public transport links, as well as attracting delegates who wish to take in nearby amenities. Aim to offer a very competitive corporate rate and dedicated support
ADDING UP
VARIABLE COSTS
These costs are calculated per person and so can change depending on conference attendance: ■ Administration (postage or an online booking tool) ■ Name badges, welcome packs, etc. ■ Catering ■ Entertainment ■ Individual transportation ■ Accommodation ■ Prizes or gifts ■ Miscellaneous (licences for music or written material, unforeseen costs)
FIXED COSTS These expenses remain the same regardless of the number of attendees: ■ Management fees and expenses such as meals, mileage, telephone, etc. ■ Personnel ■ Administration ■ Insurance and legal ■ Cost of site inspection visits ■ Promotion/advertising ■ Group accommodation ■ Transportation (cars, buses, driver meals and gratuity, tolls and parking) ■ Gratuities ■ Audio-visual equipment, staging, etc. ■ Contingency fund (to cover emergencies or unexpected purchases) ■ Design and print ■ Website design and hosting
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04
Venue Profile Conferencing 2014
the westbury hotel
Discover a wide range of solutions on offer at The Westbury, which combines, comfort, elegance and style with a handy city centre location.
N
ow more than ever, The
Hotel has always been at the forefront of
backdrop that makes any event an
Westbury Hotel offers a unique
the city’s five-star hotels and is a member
occasion.
experience of elegance and
of The Leading Hotels of the World.
The Westbury’s conferencing
style along with the highest standards
Newly refurbished, it excels even its own
facilities offer the ultimate solution
of hospitality and service. Smartly set in
earlier glories.
for small and medium sized meetings.
the very heart of Dublin, The Westbury
contact information
T: (01) 679 1122 E: westbury@doylecollection.com W: www.doylecollection.com
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The Westbury Hotel is a remarkable
The hotel has seven state-of-the-art
landmark of luxury at the fashionable
boardroom suites capable of hosting
hub of Dublin’s business and cultural life.
from eight up to 45 delegates.
The hotel reflects the style of its exclusive
Supported by a fully-equipped business
location just off Grafton Street. Boasting
centre and ideal for board meetings,
seven highly sophisticated boardrooms
seminars, training, recruitment and
as well as the extremely elegant Grafton
press conferences, The Westbury Hotel
Suite – which can host up to 200 theatre-
offers all that you would expect from a
style – this gracious hotel provides a
five-star venue.
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06
Venue Profile Conferencing 2014
Innovation at Ireland’s Best Hotel in 2014
Ambient mood lighting also provides the opportunity to stimulate the mind which can be altered to soften the room where necessary to calm weary heads. The comfortable seating with views of the countryside will take you away from the everyday stresses of your typical office routine. The hotel recognised that home comforts such as air conditioning, a fully stocked fridge and a premium coffee machine are the bedrock of any inspirational meeting. They have a range of creative menu options available including a brain-food menu or you can opt for their naughty but nice comfort snacks if the situation requires it. The room includes several small breakout areas including a balcony with modern garden furniture, comfy couches complete with coffee tables and a snug breakfast bar with high stools. This room has all the technology you would expect such as complimentary high speed Wi-Fi, Blu-Ray DVD player and surround sound along with a number of impressive new features such as Click Share Technology. This allows several delegates to present to the group either in sequence or simultaneously
For an innovative approach to meeting, look no further than Castleknock Hotel.
O
ver the past 18 months, hotels
Dublin, which was recently awarded
– particularly in Dublin – have
AA Irish Hotel of the Year 2014. They
been experiencing a return
are promoting their creative space as
to growth and investment as occupancy
the ‘ultimate meeting room combining
levels increase and average rates begin
modern technology with sheer
to recover. Yet in a background of
simplicity’.
modern office suites with in-house
Creative thinking is enhanced when
meeting facilities, hotels with conference
people are comfortable and suitably
and meeting room facilities are having
relaxed yet stimulated and energised.
to adapt to the changing business
The Thinking Factory has been
conditions with new innovations.
specifically designed with this balance
One such innovation is The Thinking
in mind. The rectangular room has
Factory, a brand new concept from
an inner circular design that promotes
Castleknock Hotel & Country Club,
creativity and removes the hierarchical top table structure that can often inhibit
contact information
T: (01) 640 6300 E: reservations@chcc.ie W: www.castleknockhotel.com
it. Instead, contemporary designed sidetables are provided to comfortably place your notes, laptop or beverage with an ‘interactive island’ featuring five large display screens providing the centrepiece of the room.
006 Conf2014_Castleknock House_CF.indd 6
through seven large television screens, five of which are located on the ‘interactive island’. An array of glass boards surround the room for some traditional brain-storming or you may decide to wirelessly connect an idea from your tablet or smartphone directly to all or a selected number of our screens. Of course the entire room IT setup is controlled from a tablet which can be used at your discretion. The Thinking Factory is specifically designed for groups of up to 15 people although the room can cater for up to 30 people in a traditional theatre style setting. The room can also include a bar, suitable for evening events, product launches and promotions. Castleknock Hotel has been making big waves in recent years winning 30 awards since 2009, including AA Hotel of the Year 2014 and an AA Rosette for its food excellence and service at its Park Restaurant for five consecutive years.
08/04/2014 12:36:04
For every ‘Boardroom Battle’...
Thank You Book your Conference/Meeting today - 15 Conference Rooms • 138 Bedrooms • Onsite Golf Course • Leisure Centre • Award Winning Day Spa • Award Winning Dining
WINNERS OF THE AA HOTEL OF THE YEAR AWARD FOR 2013/14
T: (0) 1 640 6300 E: events@chcc.ie 229012_1C_CASTLEKNOCK_JR_CONF.indd 1
www.castleknockhotel.com 07/04/2014 11:05:05
08
Perfect Ten Conferencing 2014
Perfect Ten
Organising a conference doesn’t need to be a stressful endeavour. Stick to these dependable Conferencing 2014 guidelines and create an event that runs like clockwork!
12 4
Pick a Purpose What is the motivation behind organising your event – information sharing, product selling, event revenue, etc? Know what you want to achieve and who your target audience is.
Drum Up Interest Make sure delegates are aware of the event’s purpose by sending them an event brief detailing date, venue, timetable of events, guest speakers, afterhours entertainment and additional activities.
Plan Ahead Start planning early to ensure a successful, stressfree conference. When selecting a conference date ensure it does not clash with a competing event and that you have enough time to prepare. Conferences are your opportunity to show a large audience the professionalism of your organisation. Poor conferences leave a poor impression.
Organise Yourself Compile a list of guests and delegates, send out invitations well in advance, arrange for any backdrop or other branding information to be set up for the conference and, for large events, investigate the possibility of nametags and printed materials such as conference folders, stationery or comment cards.
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08/04/2014 12:36:46
Get Inspired @ Fitzpatrick Lifestyle Hotels An ALL inclusive meeting room hire rate, with no hidden extras with Day Delegate Rate from c35* per person, which includes: • • • • • • • • •
46 inch screen lcD projector DVD / Video recorder one flipchart mineral Water pads / pens & sweets Wireless connection natural Daylight air conditioning
*Minimum of 10 people attending the meeting
now isn’t that something to get inspired about?
FOR FUTHER INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT:
Ciaran Miley on meetings@themorgan.com / meetings@thebeacon.com or call: +353 (1) 643 7057 the morgan hotel, 10 fleet street, temple Bar, Dublin 2, ireland | +353 1 643 7000 | meetings@themorgan.com | www.themorgan.com the Beacon hotel, Beacon court, sandyford Business region, Dublin 18 | +353 1 291 5000 | meetings@thebeacon.com | www.thebeacon.com
MOrgan_185x122.5 Meeting Room Ad.indd 1
15/02/2011 09:48
Because first impressions start long before your meeting does Launching the Daily Delegate Package Starting from just €35 per person We make your business a pleasure
NEW DAILY DELEGATE PACKAGE
Special Meeting Room Rate 2014 Day Delegate Rate based on minimum 10 people attending a meeting €35 per person per day | This rate includes: • 2 sittings of tea/coffee and biscuits • 2 course buffet lunch or working lunch • 46 inch Plasma TV • DVD & Video • 1 flipchart • Free Wi-Fi
• Bottled mineral water • Conference pads & pencils • Conference sweets • Complimentary High Speed Wi-Fi • Minimum of 10 delegates apply • Complimentary parking
The Beacon Hotel, Beacon Court, Sandyford Business Region, Dublin 18
+353 1 291 5000 • meetings@thebeacon.com www.thebeacon.com
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09/04/2014 11:57:45
10
Perfect Ten Conferencing 2014
Sum It Up Detail the actions decided upon in a follow-up note to all delegates. Another possible inclusion is a brief survey for delegates to comment on which elements of the event were the most useful or effective.
Open with Style Capture your guests’ attention with a powerful audiovisual presentation, dynamic speech or other motivating introduction. Monotony should be avoided at all costs as delegates will not retain information – in contrast, enthusiasm and passion are a proven success.
Stop the Press If attracting media interest is important for your event, draft the necessary press releases,
56 8 9 1
Keep It Simple Get to the point and stick to it. Delegates will thank you for keeping the information presented as clear as possible, and for regular breaks, allowing them to absorb each session.
Variety is Key Alternate between key speakers and break-out sessions, team building activities and entertainment.
Tech Specs Confirm availability of all audiovisual equipment prior to the event, as well as any specific requirements to meet speakers’ needs, such as a laptop, front and back projectors or a roaming microphone.
source the event’s main speeches and book a corporate photographer. Remember to book events at ‘quiet’ media times – don’t hold a major conference on Budget Day or details of your event will be sent straight to the bottom of the interest pile.
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07/04/2014 11:03:39
Venue Profile Conferencing 2014
made to measure meetings
Aviva Stadium is a stand-out facility for a meeting or conference that is unique and memorable. Conferencing takes a look at the venue’s past and future events and what’s on offer.
12
“At Aviva Stadium, our Meeting and Events team pride ourselves on our consistent high standards in providing one of the most unique venues and event experiences for our clients. Compass Group Ireland’s Sports Leisure and Hospitality team, led by Martina Flood, cater for all events as well as management of the non-match day sales and marketing functions. Our team with Compass at the Aviva Stadium have made the venue an expert in all conference and event requirements,” says O’Sullivan. With over 50 spaces spread over three levels, the bright open areas throughout the stadium inspire events. The emotion and heritage of the venue adds to the atmosphere and stadium tours for attendees can be arranged. The stadium also boasts high-end technological infrastructure and complimentary Wi-Fi throughout.
Innovation Aviva Stadium has just launched Christmas party packages for 2014
S
o far 2014 has been a busy year
the DMX Dublin conference for the
for Aviva Stadium Meetings
second year running, the largest digital
and Events team. The team has
media conference in the country,
already hosted over 50 meetings and
and Compass Group Ireland - who
events with some of the world’s largest
manage the meetings and events at
companies. “From daily corporate
Aviva Stadium - also worked with
boardroom meetings to training
the Irish Hospitality Institute on the
conferences and industry colleagues, we
National Business Management Game
have had excellent feedback all round,”
2014. Upcoming events include the
says Sales and Marketing Manager, Julie
National Seafood Conference, The
O’Sullivan.
Irish Fundraising Awards 2014 and the
Return Visit
National Cancer Conference.
In February, Aviva welcomed back
Accommodating Clients
the Irish Cancer Society to launch
The Aviva Stadium Meeting and
Daffodil Day 2014, one of a number
Events team has utilised their flexible
of clients who return year after year
conference spaces in a variety of
due to the excellent service and
innovative ways to suit clients - creating
award-winning team at the venue.
supermarket aisles in the President’s
In March, Aviva Stadium hosted
Suite, racing Formula 1 cars in the underground tunnel and building
contact information
Julie O’Sullivan Sales & Marketing Manager T: 01-238 2388 www.avivastadiumevents.ie
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incredible floating stage sets in the 1872 Suite. The inspired and unique use of space at the stadium offers clients something really different for a memorable meeting or event.
starting at n59 per person. “The team is committed to offering clients something different for their Christmas party whether it’s a large party of over 1,000 people or a more intimate party of 100. Our team is with you every step of the way, working alongside our chef to create bespoke menus for your party based on individual budgets and requirements. We have incorporated a range of innovative event catering ideas into client events such as live chef demonstrations, interactive chef ’s tables, dessert buffets, pitch cakes and even personalised ice sculptures,” advises O’Sullivan. “For décor we work with some of the country’s best event suppliers to create memorable Christmas events to suit your taste, theme and budget.” For June to August, Aviva Stadium is also offering fantastic deals for summer parties, corporate family days and BBQs. For more information, contact Julie O’Sullivan, Sales and Marketing Manager on 01 238 2388 or visit avivastadiumevents.ie
08/04/2014 10:13:43
The 4 star CityNorth Hotel offers stateof-the-art conference facilities in a highly accessible location, just 15 minutes north of Dublin Airport. Facilities include: • A choice of 12 well equipped meeting rooms • Large scale suites for us to 650 delegates • Complimentary reliable Wi-Fi • 24 hour mini bus service • Free car parking • Hi-tech fitness suite • Treatment room & Acupuncture clinic • Corporate lounge Gormanston, County Meath, Ireland 01 690 6666 • greatevents@citynorthhotel.com
www.citynorthhotel.com CITYNORTH_NEW.indd 1
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M50 Dublin
(30 mins)
PORT TUNNEL
M1
J7
M50
Dublin Airport CityNorth Dublin4★PORT (15 mins) TUNNEL (30 mins)Hotel
M1
Drogheda Belfast Dublin Airport
(15 mins) (90 mins)
J7 4★ CityNorth Hotel
11/04/2014 19:05:00
11/04/2014 19:06:27
14
Venue Profile Conferencing 2014
Hidden Luxury
The luxurious Druids Glen Resort, located just thirty minutes south of Dublin, is set in 400 acres of rolling countryside, nestled between the Wicklow Mountains and the Irish Sea.
W
ith both location and
choose from the elegant James Joyce
celebration, the entire Hotel can be hired
scenery as its primary
ballroom or one of the seven executive
as ‘Exclusively Yours’, offering complete
benefits, Druids Glen
meeting rooms, all stylishly designed with
privacy and a highly personalised service.
Resort offers the best of both worlds; a
comfort and flexibility in mind and with
secluded venue to remove yourself from
natural daylight and superb views.
everyday distractions, a location with an
Dining is a delight whether you choose
When energising your team is on the agenda, the six-acre site at Druids Acres is perfect for team building activities.
abundance of cultural hotspots on the
to dine á la carte in Druids Brasserie,
The Druids Glen Events Team is on
doorstep, places of historical interest set
overlooking the decking area or sample
hand to assist you in every aspect of
amid spectacular landscapes and Dublin’s
our extensive bar menu in the cosy
your programme plan: from off-site
cosmopolitan city centre nearby to
atmosphere of the 13th Bar and Pavilion
dining options to a vast list of indoor and
explore and enjoy.
lounge with stunning views of Druids
outdoor activities including cultural and
Glen golf course. We can also create
heritage sightseeing, golf, and adventure
a bespoke dining experience for your
afternoons.
Refurbishment The Resort has just undergone a b3
event to really wow your delegates and
million refurbishment and offers 145
clients for that special occasion.
Breathtaking Location
conference and banqueting suites,
Planning
at Druids Glen Golf Course, dates
a spa and health club as well as two
Our creative and dynamic Events team
back to 1770 and has been the home
championship golf courses, Druids Glen
will work with you from your initial
to many Lords, Ladies, Bishops and
and Druids Heath.
enquiry right through to the execution
even some famous musicians including
of your successful event. Druids Glen
Mike Oldfield who recorded Tubular
Resort provides you with:
Bells II there. The breathtaking rooftop
n Free WiFi
terrace is ideal for drinks receptions and
n 55” LED Screens
overlooks Druids Glen with views of the
n iPad mirroring capability
estate stretching as far as the Irish Sea.
n Desktop connectivity
Woodstock House offers unique private
n Full HD presentation capabilities
dining options for up to 80 guests.
deluxe guest rooms and suites, eight
Whether you are planning a large conference or an executive meeting,
contact information
T: (01) 287 0878 E: sales@druidsglenresort.com W: www.druidsglenresort.com
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If you are planning an exciting product launch, large conference or
Woodstock House, the Clubhouse
Druids Glen Resort – worlds away, yet right on Dublin’s doorstep.
08/04/2014 10:14:12
Be inspired in our newly
refurbished meeting & event spaces
where award winning luxury awaits you.
World’s away... yet on Dublin’s Doorstep
• 145 guestrooms. 8 meeting & event suites • Natural daylight & stunning views • • Two championship golf courses • 30 minutes from Dublin • • Druids Acres for Outdoor Team-Building Activities • Complimentary WiFi •
Newtownmountkennedy, Co. Wicklow, Ireland | T. 01 287 0878 | www.druidsglenresort.com 230651_1C_DRUIDSGLEN_JR_CON.indd 1
07/04/2014 11:06:10
16
The Gathering Conferencing 2014
A Great Success The Gathering, Ireland’s biggest tourism initiative yet, exceeded and surprised expectations. When the initiative was first announced, former Irish cultural ambassador and actor Gabriel Byrne described it as a shakedown of the diaspora and Ryanair chief executive Michael O’Leary dubbed it ‘The Grabbing’. But looking back at the year of The Gathering, Rachel Murray believes it’s safe to say it was a great success.
O
ver 5,000 events were held
and undertaken by independent
due to The Gathering attracting over
nationally as part of The
researchers, The Gathering was
25,266 incremental high-yield business
Gathering initiative; this
delivered within its approved budget
travellers to Ireland. 52 of these were
generated approximately €170 million
of €13m from the Department for
conferences, assemblies and events
in tourism revenue which is directly
Transport, Tourism & Sport. It also
that were held for the first time and
attributable to The Gathering. The
succeeded in leveraging substantial
which brought an additional 9,000
initiative brought an additional 275,000
third-party cash and in-kind supports
delegates to Ireland. “The Gathering’s
visitors to Ireland, seeing a 7.3 per
estimated to be worth €8m.
partnerships with businesses like IPB
cent increase in the visits to Ireland
Insurance Community Fund and
in the first ten months of 2013. Some
Opportunity
markets, such as the US – a key target
Businesses and organisations in Ireland
for future links between businesses
market for The Gathering - saw double
and abroad used The Gathering
and communities,” said Minister for
digit growth.
initiative as an opportunity. Fáilte
Transport, Tourism & Sport Leo
Ireland confirmed 183 corporate
Varadkar.
According to a report commissioned by the organisers of The Gathering,
016 Conf2014_Gathering.indd 16
events happened throughout 2013
Alltech will be used as a template
In support of The Gathering, Ernst
08/04/2014 12:37:50
The Gathering Conferencing 2014
17
A wide variety of events were held throughout the capital city; Ernst & Young and the International Pharmaceutical Federation were amongst the litany of organisations which held events during The Gathering 2013.
Representative Council of Ireland both hosted celebratory reunion dinners at the venue as part of a wider series of social events. “We’ve had wonderful feedback on the gala dinner. It was our aim to show visitors returning home modern Ireland at its best, hence our choice of the Convention Centre Dublin. The service and technical staff were all superb and I’d have no hesitation in recommending the CCD for future events,” said Gary Cohen, Irish Jewish Gathering Event Organiser. Other organisations used The Gathering to theme their events; the Ronald MacDonald House Charity hosted a Gathering Gala Ball at the Convention Centre.
Success Stories The venue’s main success story of The Gathering was Alltech, one of America’s most celebrated whiskey and bourbon breweries, which brought its and Young held its annual Europe,
conference was a huge success. This
prestigious International Craft Brewing
Middle East, India and Africa (EMEIA),
is the first time EY held an event in
and Distilling Convention to Ireland
New Senior Manager and Assistant
Ireland of this scale. The Gathering
for the first time. According to Fáilte
Director Programme (NSMADP),
represented a fantastic opportunity
Ireland, this was the largest corporate
at Citywest, Dublin. Over 1,500
to lay the foundations for on-going
event held as part of The Gathering.
international attendees travelled to
commercial benefits by attracting
CEO Pearse Lyons, a member of the
Dublin from 87 countries for a four-day
future EY Global and EMEIA events
diaspora, brought 3,000 delegates to
conference in conjunction with The
to Ireland beyond 2013. The feedback
Ireland.
Gathering. Altogether the attendees
from our international EY colleagues
occupied 4,000 bed nights and
was really positive and we will work
international events in Ireland as part
contributed an estimated €3m to the
with them to attract future events back
of the Gathering with a value of m3.6m
Irish economy.
here.”
to the Irish economy. These events
Alltech held a total of eight
The Convention Centre Dublin
were hosted in New Ross, Dunboyne,
time and resources in tendering for
(CCD) hosted a number of events for
the RDS and the CCD. Dr. Lyons also
the event through a very competitive
a diverse range of clients in 2013 as
facilitated the visit by 35 members of
bidding process. We faced extremely
part of The Gathering. Most of the
the Kennedy clan last June, to mark
tough competition from our colleagues
events were hosted by domestic clients
the 50th anniversary of President John
in capital cities across other EMEIA
who used the concept to reunite their
F Kennedy’s visit to Ireland in June
locations, but we came out on top
international network of friends,
1963.
predominately by pitching Ireland as
colleagues or alumni, and invite them
a premier location to do business, ease
to celebrate their Irish culture and
Brewing and Distilling Convention
of access and for cost competitiveness,”
heritage.
lasted three days and covered
“Ernst and Young invested significant
says Managing Partner of EY Ireland, Mike McKerr. He added: “The EMEIA
016 Conf2014_Gathering.indd 17
The Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI) and the Jewish
The Alltech International Craft
a number of events including a Woodsongs concert, the Dublin Craft
09/04/2014 11:37:55
18
The Gathering Conferencing 2014
A Dublin fun run event passes Trinity College Dublin in the capital.
unknown but have led to the higher estimates of the contribution to the overall national economy. “The Gathering was a critical factor in helping to make the case for additional air access to Ireland during 2013. In this regard, available air seat capacity increased by 4 per cent for the peak summer season (up to 20 per cent from North America at peak) and by 7 per cent for the winter period,” says Minister of State for Tourism and Sport, Michael Ring T.D. “Indications are that all of the increased air capacity secured for the year of The Gathering Beer Cup and a public expo. The event
congresses,” says Eoghan Hanly. “As
has been retained for 2014, with a
was a great success, and has resulted
local organiser the PSI was delighted
number of new additional routes also
in a repeat booking for the CCD. “As a
with the attendance figures and
confirmed. This will further strengthen
proud Irish man I took full advantage
with the feedback from delegates
Ireland’s position as a compelling
of the opportunities presented by The
throughout that week. It was also great
destination for corporate events.”
Gathering. 2013 saw us bring our key
to see a large number of Irish speakers
corporate events and people from
presenting as part of the week-long
Recommendations
all over the world to Ireland, where
Congress programme.”
Although The Gathering was a great
we celebrated the Irish tradition of
The largest international delegations
success on many levels, Jim Miley,
international commerce and trade and
were from Nigeria, China, the USA,
Project Director of The Gathering,
our visitors witnessed first-hand the
Portugal and Finland. Delegate
made a number of recommendations
enormous potential that resides here in
numbers from key ‘diaspora’ countries
in his final report on the year-long
Ireland,” said Dr Lyons.
such as the USA, UK, Canada and
event. For example, he recommended
Australia were significantly increased
that The Gathering shouldn’t be staged
held at the CCD brought in excess
on previous congresses, demonstrating
any more than once every five years
of 4,000 delegates to the venue last
the success of the international
as it would not be practical to prepare
year. “We found the Gathering to be a
promotion undertaken in conjunction
the national and international effort
beneficial ‘add on’ feature to holding
with The Gathering. The PSI and its
needed to run it successfully on a
an event in Ireland in 2013,” says sales
local host committee (representatives
frequent basis.
director Paul Carnell. “The work of
from across the pharmacy network in
Fáilte Ireland in stimulating positivity
Ireland and Northern Ireland) actively
which is backed up by Fáilte Ireland, is
and celebration around the Irish
promoted the congress at national,
the power of personal invitation which
identity was an excellent message to
European and international events.
Fáilte Ireland says “was one of the great
In total, the Gathering events
promote to the world. As many of our
It has been indicated by Fáilte
One stand-out finding in the report,
successes of The Gathering”.
bookings come from word-of-mouth
Ireland that the FIP Congress was
recommendations, any event that
among the five largest business tourism
another Gathering should only be
brings international delegates to our
events of 2013, bringing an estimated
made after the final economic impact
venue can have a far-reaching positive
55m to the local economy during the
and social and community impact
impact.”
week of the congress, with additional
reports are published mid-2014 and
benefits arising from tourism before
careful consideration is taken. He
and after the congress. Many delegates
also recommended that consideration
“The final attendance figures show
travelled with additional friends
should be taken to not repeating The
that 3,000 participants from 107
and family to make the most of their
Gathering but to build on sustained
countries participated, comparing very
travel to Ireland including for golfing
and on-going development of the
favourably with previous FIP C
holidays – those exact figures are
legacies of The Gathering 2013.
Looking Back
016 Conf2014_Gathering.indd 18
A decision on whether or not to hold
08/04/2014 12:38:38
Whe n a p e rf ect meeting is more im p o rtant than ever ‌
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228808-1C-FOUR-AMA-CON.indd 1
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20
Venue Profile Conferencing 2014
Contemporary, Classic, Convenient
The conferencing facilities at The Mansion House can offer your delegates an extraordinary experience.
T
Room are modern and fresh, sure to lift any guest’s or delegate’s spirits! Each of the rooms enjoy direct access to a
he conferencing and meetings
modernity of a restoration complete with
fabulous outdoor terrace, which spans
facilities at The Conference
the very latest cutting- edge technology.
the building – perfect for al fresco breaks
and Events Venue at The
The Round Room (pictured top) is one
and receptions. Easily accessible by public transport,
Mansion House offer your delegates an
of the six event spaces on offer. Entirely
extraordinary experience in Dublin’s
circular in shape, hence its name, it
with car parking behind the venue,
most convenient location. Following a
boasts no obstructions and can cater
its proximity to hotels, shopping and
dramatic revamp last year, the venue
for conferences theatre-style up to 650,
nightlife make it a delegate’s dream!
is now one of Dublin’s most impressive
classroom-style 300 and cabaret-style 330.
The dedicated, personal event team at
and desirable meeting spaces. Boasting
Its semi-circular balcony is the perfect
The Conference and Events Venue will
six separate yet flexible and interlinked
place for VIPs, additional exhibition
ensure your event will be everything
rooms, The Conference and Events
space or for break outs. Originally built
you hope for. It’s a bespoke service,
Venue can easily accommodate almost
in 1821, it was this very room which
promising a perfect fit for every
any size or style of meeting, seminar,
hosted the inaugural meeting of the Dáil
objective, while always offering solutions
conference, exhibition, social function,
Eireann in 1919! The in-house event
and suggestions, to lift your event from
dinner and corporate event. The
management team will ensure that every
ordinary to extraordinary.
Conference and Events Venue at The
event in the space has a bespoke identity,
Mansion House combines the grandeur
making the most of the room’s shape and
of a 19th century setting with the
features. Overlooking the ‘Lord Mayor’s Garden’ on Dublin’s desirable Dawson
contact information
T: (01) 634 4628 E: enquiries@mansionhouse.ie W: www.mansionhouse.ie
Street, the new modern glass design flatters the frontage, while flooding the event spaces with natural light. Along the first floor, the Trinity Room, St Stephens Green Room and The Glass
020 Conf2014_Mansion House_Cf 20
The Venue at a Glance n n n n n n n n n
Six versatile rooms Superfast 100MB Wi-Fi HD LED TV Screens Complimentary secretarial services Air conditioning Natural daylight Break out rooms Private outdoor area City centre location
09/04/2014 09:11:29
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22
Blendology Conferencing 2014
Creating Connections UK tech firm Blendology offers an interesting and innovative tap-to-connect product for the conferencing and events sector, one which has been gaining traction in recent months. Conferencing 2014 spoke with company founder and CEO Bill Munday to find out more.
E
ntrepreneur Bill Munday first
rental model for their devices, which
provides technology that makes it
had the idea of connecting two
includes Blendology staff at the event,
very easy for one device to connect
electronic devices quickly, easily
and a front-of-house service for
to another, by simply tapping two
and securely back in 1996 when he
event organisers. “This has been very
devices anywhere – no information
was one of the first to begin working
successful and we have provided a
needs to be exchanged beforehand,”
with a new technology, Bluetooth. It
networking solution at some exciting
Munday says. “We pride ourselves that
would take another 15 years, however,
events last year,” he adds.
the Blendology technology will work
before it really gained traction.
in a tent in a desert with no external
“When we were at the Mobile World
Background
network or internet connection needs,
Congress in 2011, whilst exchanging
Having studied systems engineering
as we create our own local peer-to-
business cards that ran out, we had
at university, Munday has significant
peer network. The ‘tap’ data is stored
the idea of something as quick and
experience in the technological
on each badge, and once internet
simple as a business card handover,
sphere, including a start at Nortel, a
connectivity is restored, the data is
yet with an infinite supply,” explains
large Canadian telecommunications
uploaded and delegates are able to
Munday, Blendology’s founder and
firm was followed by spells at startups
view their networks online.” Last
CEO. The company operates on a
Symbionics and Trygenix. And all the
year, around 36 events played host to
while, in the background, was an idea,
Blendology’s tap-to-connect technology,
an R&D project which concerned the
including high end tech events such as
easy connection of two devices, one of
RE WORK, investor forums like BCT
the things which Munday had always
and IES and other high profile events
wanted to do. Once he had secured
like Founders Forum.
Blendology Bio
Blendology was launched in 2012 at SXSW in Austin, Texas with a product known as SOJOLIFE. Their target – the 800 million attendees of festivals in the West each year. Having learned from this experience, the following year Blendology focused just on the professional event sector, with a potential reach of 300 million attendees per annum. “It was a very positive year, especially realising my vision and seeing the enjoyment and surprise in people’s eyes when they use the technology for the first time,” says Munday. “We created a demand in the professional events space, mainly driven by attendees having fun connecting and using Blendology as an ice-breaker at events, which led to some great feedback on social media and a real ‘buzz’ about the badges online.”
022 Conf2014_Blendology.indd 22
grants Blendology was born and since mid-2011 he has been working
Data
on growing the business, something
The efficient and insightful analysis of
which is beginning to pay off now. “It
data has become increasingly important
does take time when you’re trying to
in recent years. Professionals such
introduce a brand-new concept to the
as event organisers have been using
world,” Munday admits.
accumulated data, for example, to
The idea behind Blendology is
manage their budgets by keeping tabs
simple yet innovative – rapid, internet-
on items such as vendor costs over a
free connectivity. Attendees at events
period of time.
can simply touch their one-tap badges
And while the technology is quite
against another, resulting in instant
impressive in and of itself, Munday
data transfer, even when no internet
maintains that what it’s really about
connection is available. “Blendology
is the data, which is collected by each
08/04/2014 15:08:09
Blendology Conferencing 2014
23
Future Clearly, Munday and Blendology have something on their hands. Last year, they supplied 36 events with their technology; this year, 36 requests have already been received. Munday has also been receiving repeat business since the beginning of the year from clients such as the Founders Forum. “Founders Forum used us last year in June and then they used us again a couple times. This year they just sent me a note saying ‘can we do all of our events with you this year.’ There’s no sales or marketing happening, other FROM ABOVE: Demonstrations of the innovative tap-toconnect technology from Blendology.
than people who’ve been to an event, loved the technology, and want it at their own event,” explains Munday. “The real value is coming from the fact that attendees are happy with the event.
device and uploaded whenever an
And when the attendees are happy with
internet connection becomes available.
the event, the organisers say ‘if that’s
“What we collect are loads and loads
keeping them happy, then we’ll have
of dots being connected. We can
more of that’.”
tell you if it has been a good event,
Whatever happens, the future for
or how you would re-organise that
Munday and Blendology appears to
event,” he explains. “Looking at the
be quite positive. As Munday enthuses:
analysis of the data, we’re building an
“we have a very likeable, easy-to-
inside knowledge of event behaviour.
connect and fun-to-use technology and
Depending upon the type of people
the company is really capturing lots
that are there, depending upon the
of data.” For attendees, Blendology
type of event, we can tell you about
have created a fantastic method of
how many connections will happen, for
networking. For the event organiser,
example, or how many people interact
it offers easy access to useful statistics
during the morning, afternoon, etc.” For organisers, collecting user data is
and data, while exhibitors can easily is significant. “We’ve got multiple
generate leads. More importantly for
something which will not only benefit
countries who want a franchise – I’ve
those in the events, Blendology have
future events in terms of attendee
got people who are wanting it in
introduced a new social interaction
experience, but provides something
America and in Europe. And, sitting
in the form of the ‘tap’, more than a
tangible to present to sponsors,
here in the UK, we can’t do all of it.
‘hello’ or a handshake, but less formal
investors and exhibitors to highlight
We see expansion even to the extent of
than exchanging business cards, while
how positive an event has been.
India, Singapore and China, who are
creating connections which can be quite
demanding it at the moment,” he says.
useful down the road.
Expansion
Munday’s vision for the technology is
Munday concludes with a quote from
At the moment, Blendology is quite
the generation of a swell to the point
Apple founder Steve Jobs, one which
small, with only two staff – Munday
where it exists as a new standard for
really feels rather apt in this instance.
and another member dealing with IT.
Bluetooth in terms of connecting
“You can’t connect the dots looking
Each time an event comes up, Munday
devices, or where a mobile phone
forward; you can only connect them
employs contractors who work on an
operator or equipment manufacturer
looking backwards. So you have to trust
event-by-event basis, but the possibility
decides to take it on as an exclusive
that the dots will somehow connect in
for expansion on quite a large scale
product differentiator.
your future.”
022 Conf2014_Blendology.indd 23
08/04/2014 15:08:28
24
Venue Profile Conferencing 2014
A Business day out
House. It has now been equipped with 20 luxury en-suite bedrooms and, while keeping the original layout and furnishing, its ballroom and adjacent drawing rooms provide an intimate and opulent setting for parties and functions. Palmerstown House Estate employs fulltime chefs and waiting staff and can cater for cocktail parties, full sit-down meals, as well as more informal barbecues and light meals. This is where I’d organise a corporate dinner or a product launch. The wonderful en-suite bedrooms can accommodate visitors and are sure to wow guests – especially those coming from abroad – with their old-world charm. This is where I’d take the people I want to impress. And if my guests were arriving on a helicopter, no problem. Just outside Palmerstown House, there are a whopping seven helicopter pads! “There are a lot of beautiful historic buildings that have been converted
Martina Latini explains why Palmerstown House Estate is the obvious choice.
S
into hotels or business centres,” says Kevin. “What really sets us aside is the privacy and tranquility we can offer our guests. And while the setting is
itting on 700 acres of lush
ago. One kilometre from the gate, I roll
ideal for productive business meetings,
meadows and centennial trees,
up into the ample car park in front of
the delegates can play some golf on
Palmerstown House Estate is a
the imposing Clubhouse building. There
their time off. We can also organise
place of leisure, but don’t be fooled: it’s
I am welcomed by General Manager
team-building activities like archery or
just the place to go to do business. The
Kevin Morrison, who offers me a seat
shooting. I can’t think of a better place
imposing spiked gate is just minutes
in the plush Empery Bistro, the first
for a company retreat.”
off the N7 and, unlike a few months
floor bar and restaurant. “I spent most
ago, now it’s open. As I drive through
of my career so far in large, corporate
Johnstown, Co. Kildare, just 20 minutes
ancient trees and the mature parkland of
city hotels,” he tells me over freshly
from Dublin City and 40 from Dublin
Palmerstown Stud Golf course, I realise
brewed tea. “The peace and the privacy
Airport. For more information, contact
that Dublin’s traffic jams and fast-paced
of Palmerstown is something I’m only
Palmerstown House Estate by phone on
business life are just outside, yet couldn’t
starting to get used to.”
+353 45 906 901 or by email at events@
be more far away.
Kevin takes me to the ground floor
Palmerstown House Estate is located in
palmerstownhouse.com. You can also
to show me the 20-seat boardroom.
find out more about services, facilities
stunning views of Kildare’s peaceful
“This is where we would accommodate a
and rates on www.palmerstownhouse.
countryside, is Palmerstown House, built
small business meeting. We can provide
com
in 1872 by the Earl of Mayo and a private
refreshments, meals and office and
residence until only a couple of years
secretarial services.” For larger meetings,
On top of the hill on my right, with
Kevin recommends the High Chaparral suite on the second floor. It can be set up
contact information
T: (045) 906 901 E: events@palmerstownhouse.com W: www.palmerstownhouse.com
as a function or a conference room and it has private bar, bathrooms and balcony. Not to mention the stunning views over the golf course. We then move on to visit Palmerstown
024 Conf2014_Palmerstown_CF.indd 24
07/04/2014 17:06:27
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26
Conference Layout Conferencing 2014
setting the scene Conference organisers are tasked with creating an environment which will allow delegates to maximise their experience. A practical and comfortable setting with a carefully chosen layout is an important factor to the success of a conference, and there are six key formats to consider.
1
Theatre Style A set-up consisting of chairs facing the front of the
2
Hollow Square This layout is created by arranging six to eight-foot trestle tables in a square. Chairs are placed around the outside of the tables with the centre of the square remaining open. The space created between the delegates allows for a more formal approach to the boardroom style.
room, theatre style is an ideal layout for conferences consisting mainly of short plenary sessions with breakout sessions throughout the day. It is particularly conducive to large groups as you won’t need to allow space for tables.
026 Conf2014_Setting the scene.indd 26
07/04/2014 16:57:19
Conference Layout Conferencing 2014
3
Crescent Round In this set-up, delegates’ chairs are arranged in a semi-circle for working lunches or presentations. If you are hosting a long session in this layout, you may want to
27
4
Classroom Style The perfect choice
consider lecture chairs so that
when note-taking is
delegates are not taking notes
required, classroom
on their laps. Ideal for 20 to 25
style seats delegates
delegates and for larger groups
on one side of a table
you can create crescent rows.
facing the front of the room. Microphones can be placed on these tables at larger conferences where speakers are expected
5
to engage with the audience. Lecture chairs can be used to provide a classroom layout where space is limited. Blocked sight
6 Banquet Style
lines can be an issue
Boardroom Style
for delegates seated
A boardroom layout, where
at the back of this
delegates are seated around a
arrangement. Combat
square or round table facing one
this by using platforms
another, is just right for facilitating
to create stadium style
conversation and creating an
seating, or by placing
intimate setting. Typically used for
plasma screens around
smaller meetings, this format can
the room.
also be used for break-out sessions to break up the monotony of the main plenary room.
Banquet style consists of round tables of eight to ten delegates evenly dispersed throughout the room, and is used for group events such as dinners, galas and activity-based plenary sessions. When utilising this layout for an awards ceremony or a meal, be mindful to leave spacious aisles to accommodate the traffic. A banquet style set-up with less than 40 delegates can feel empty, especially if the room is large. A boardroom style or hollow square style may be more appropriate in this instance.
026 Conf2014_Setting the scene.indd 27
07/04/2014 16:57:49
28
Venue Profile Conferencing 2014
where ireland meets the world In today’s increasingly virtual society a common misconception is that the age of the face-to-face meeting is behind us. However, events that facilitate personal interaction and networking continue to be an important strategic tool for many of the world’s leading organisations. Testament to this is the significant growth in business tourism that Ireland has seen in the past few years, together with the resounding success of The Convention Centre Dublin (The CCD) as Ireland’s premier conference venue.
I
n just three and a half years since
2013 including NetApp, Skoda, Kerry
hub of Europe. In fact, the European
opening, The CCD has hosted
Ingredients and Flavours, Hostelworld.
headquarters of many of the world’s
over 900 events welcoming over
com, KPMG and L’Oreal, to name but
leading corporates are located in
a few.
the vicinity of The CCD in Dublin’s
910,000 total delegate days, and has won 26 industry awards, including runner up for World’s Best Convention Centre at the APIC Apex Award 2012. This iconic venue has developed an
The Ultimate Conference Destination
Docklands, making the venue ideally positioned to entice this market. In addition, Ireland’s location at
There’s no doubt that sustaining
the gateway to Europe offers many
unparalleled reputation for excellence
delegate numbers in today’s economic
logistical benefits. With Dublin Airport
across the global meetings and events
climate can be a challenge, it is
serving 55 airlines and 169 routes,
industry, and is now widely considered
therefore essential that an event’s
including direct flights to the UK,
one of Europe’s most esteemed
location appeals to the business tourist.
US, Europe and the Middle East, it is
conference venues. So what is it that
Since The CCD opened in September
highly accessible for all.
sets this venue apart from the rest?
2010, Dublin has really established
But it is not just the city that is
itself as a strong contender to host
accessible, The CCD itself is located
some of the world’s highest-profile
a mere 15-20 minute journey from
The calibre of The CCD’s client base
conferences, as evidenced by its climb
Dublin Airport, and is served by
speaks volumes about the venue’s
up ten places in the International
over 18,500 competitively priced
capabilities. Last year alone the venue
Congress and Convention Association
hotel rooms within a 10km radius.
welcomed over 200 events including
(ICCA) rankings.
Furthermore, many of the city’s key
A Solid Track Record
eHealth Week (2,500 delegates),
Dublin’s rise to fame as an
tourist attractions, including its many
European Intelligent Transport Systems
international conference destination
museums, galleries, the Guinness
(ITS) Congress (ERTICO) (1,200
can be attributed to a number of
Storehouse and the famous Temple
delegates) and the World Congress of
unique selling points. Not only has
Bar area, are within walking distance
Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences
it become known as a centre for
or a short tram ride from The CCD,
(3,300 delegates). It also welcomed a
academic research and innovation, but
enabling business and leisure to be
diverse range of corporate clients in
also as the business and technology
easily combined.
028 Conf2014_CCD_CF.indd 28
07/04/2014 16:58:59
Venue Profile Conferencing 2014
29
The ‘Wow’ Factor However, the destination is only half the battle when it comes to attracting delegate numbers; the venue choice often seals the deal for the international business tourist. As Ireland’s first purpose built international conference venue, The CCD offers delegates and clients a unique event experience. The entire venue is finished to the highest specifications and incorporates the latest technology throughout. A range of multi-functional rooms, suitable for events and conferences of all shapes and sizes are available, including a 2,000 seat auditorium, 4,500 square metres of exhibition space and banqueting facilities for up to 3,000 guests. In addition, The CCD’s light-flooded central atrium offers delegates a breath of fresh air between conference sessions, where panoramic views of the city and surrounding Wicklow mountains can be admired across six bright and spacious foyers. These areas
Client Testimonials “This is the best convention centre I have ever worked in. The staff were so well prepared and had such a great handle on things.” Cathy Ryan, Senior Director, International Meetings, HIMSS, eHealth Week, May 2013 “I have to say I am blown away by all the staff at The CCD and the service that you provide. It really is a world-class facility with a team of staff that provide a world-class service level.” Olivia Slevin, Global Sustainability Conference Coordinator on behalf of Bord Bia, September 2013 “I’ve attended many conferences before and never experienced the kind of service that your team provided. Everyone I met during the event was extremely attentive to all our needs and went above and beyond to take care of us.” Pamela Logan, Director of Pharmacy Services, Irish Pharmacy Union, Choice European Conference, September 2013 “This was one of the best conference experiences we’ve ever had. Thank you so much for your outstanding efforts!” Associations Direct, EBRL26 Conference, April 2013
only can clients avail of a range of fully
international events including the
inclusive packages, but they also have
2014 European People’s Party (EPP)
receptions and hospitality.
the opportunity to make bespoke out-
Congress and Radiodays Europe.
of-the-ordinary requests. Whatever
The venue is also looking forward
The Personal Touch
the event, be it a conference, meeting,
to welcoming the World Youth and
exhibition, banquet, entertainment
Student Travel Conference (WYSTC),
production, this venue has the event
the 32nd Annual Meeting of the
production equipment and expertise
European Society for Paediatric
to bring that event to life, and deliver a
Infectious Diseases, the APEX TV
memorable experience for guests.
Market Conference 2014, Plant
offer a unique range of additional spaces, and are perfect for registration,
The CCD is not only famed for its signature architecture and convenient location, but also for its exceptionally high customer satisfaction rate, which consistently ranks above 96 per cent. The venue prides itself on offering first-class service with a high level of professionalism and expertise, coupled with a sense of Irish warmth and hospitality. The core team of an Event Manager, a Technical Production Manager, a Hospitality Manager and an IT Manager is supported by a full range of in-house services, such as hosts, furniture, cleaning and security. Clients are also assigned a dedicated and specialist Account Manager who is well-acquainted with the competitive bidding process that can be required to attract prestigious events to the city. At The CCD flexibility is key; not
028 Conf2014_CCD_CF.indd 29
Together, the team allocated to each
Biology Europe’s (FESPB/ESPO)
and every client will work tirelessly to
Congress and One Young World, to
ensure that all service levels are kept
name but a few.
consistently high, for every event, every day.
What does the future hold?
Whether it’s by stimulating innovation in scientific or medical research, or by helping to land new deals and strengthen relationships in the business realm, it’s clear that face-
The future is certainly bright at The
to-face meetings are a very important
CCD, which is taking booking enquiries
feature in the calendar of leading
as far as ten years in advance. This year
corporates and associations. How
the venue has already welcomed back
could your organisation benefit from
a number of return clients, including
bringing people together to provoke
Alltech’s International Craft Brews
fresh thinking? With Dublin as the
and Food Fair, the Flyer Professional
perfect backdrop, and The CCD
Flight Training Exhibition and Career
offering the ultimate inspirational
Zoo, as well as a number of high-profile
venue, the solution is clear!
07/04/2014 16:59:39
30
Team Bulding Conferencing 2014
Team Building Conferencing 2014
30
AN IN TEAM BUILDING
In today’s business world, where self-contained, specialised teams are replacing traditional hierarchal management structures, the fostering of a productive team dynamic has never been more important. Conferencing 2014 looks at the importance of a creating good team spirit within the workplace.
A
lthough there is a certain
powerful tool for increased profitability.
arbitrary element to whether
Research has also proven that effective
or not team members ‘gel’,
team building skills have a major
leaving it to chance is probably not the
influence in winning the commitment
best business practice.
of staff and increasing their motivation
Membership of a professional team
and overall job satisfaction. Teamwork
is based on the assumption that team
is a skill, one that is quite easily
members share the same goal – which
achieved but often overlooked.
in the business world usually consists of
In Ireland, more and more
selling a product or service – and work
companies are recognising the
towards it. The success of this goal
importance of fostering this skill. The
is based on how well the team works
number of companies who specialise
together in order to achieve their goal.
in providing businesses with an
Team building can help to motivate
opportunity to develop the skill of
and enable a team to reach its goal.
teamwork within their organisation is
Where the practice of team
rapidly increasing. These companies
building is most effective is when it is
generally offer a similar package
company. Involving all employees aids
approached logically and methodically.
designed to cultivate teamwork within
communication and relations within
Actively engaging in activities designed
organisations. This is accomplished by
existing hierarchal structures.
to develop the practise of teamwork
taking team members out of the work
within an organisation has been
environment and engaging them in
companies specialising in team
identified as one of the ways in which to
any number of tasks which involve the
building, there comes a huge variety of
improve the performance of your team.
development of the skills necessary for
locations and activities to choose from
Studies have shown that a company’s
a successful team.
to suit the needs of your company.
performance is directly related to the
A business ‘team’ involves everybody
With the growing number of
A simple internet search reveals
cohesion of the various members of its
from the clerk to the manager, and
the multitude of activities on offer
workforce.
therefore team building activities
which range from the conventional
should include everybody, regardless
to the extraordinary. When choosing
of status or standing within the
what activity to participate in, think
A focused team spirit within a workforce can be an organisation’s most
030 Conf2014_Team Building.indd 30
07/04/2014 17:03:50
Team Bulding Conferencing 2014
31
team performance in the past. Having shared the experience and success of the event, employees will take a rejuvenated team spirit back into the workplace. While daytime activities focus more on team ‘building’, after hours activities can encourage team ‘bonding’, an equally important aspect of the team dynamic. Increasingly, companies are providing employees with the opportunity to participate in company nights out which may come in various forms; examples include casino nights, race nights, karaoke or murder mystery weekends. Evening events are easier to organise internally; they do not require the special skills and equipment that daytime team building activities require. Although it is possible to hire a company to organise an optimal entertainment event, it is not completely necessary. Various locations across Ireland provide dinner and drinks facilities for offices and many also have facilities that allow for a more adventurous evening, there are a number of different options. The purpose of organising these evenings of entertainment for your staff is to nurture your employees’ sense of community and make them feel more at ease with their fellow workers. By taking employees out of the office and giving them a chance to interact outside of a work environment, you can help build relationships within the team. When a person begins to feel a sense of belonging within the company, they are carefully about the best activity for
necessity of working together in order
more likely to contribute beyond the
your requirements. You could choose
to achieve a goal, for example beating
level they are used to.
a medieval theme with archery and
another team. Even activities such as
bowls, an extreme theme with Formula
quizzes and treasure hunts allow team
and celebrations are not intrusions
One racing or rock-climbing or a
members to contribute the benefit of
to work, but necessary ingredients
marine extravaganza with sailing and
their varied knowledge to the team in
in its performance. Effective teams
canoeing. A full day can be organised
the hope that their team will emerge
require work and effort on the part
around any of these activities, with
victorious.
of the employee and the employer
team building strategies incorporated
By facing challenges of completing
Team building, bonding events
alike. If you expect a great result from
into all of them. For a good old-
tasks together, people quickly settle
your team, it is necessary to create
fashioned battle of teams there is no
into each other’s company and work
the conditions in which this can be
activity better suited than paintball.
through any minor personality
achieved. Team building and bonding
differences which may have inhibited
sessions are just the way to do it.
Activities invariably involve the
030 Conf2014_Team Building.indd 31
07/04/2014 17:04:23
32
Venue Profile Conferencing 2014
crowne plaza No matter what the event, the team on hand at Crowne Plaza conference venues are well-placed to cater to your every need.
W
e’re confident that you’ll
and confidently help fulfill any ad-hoc
find Crowne Plaza
requests.
conference venues in
Crowne Plaza is committed to ensuring
Ireland ideal for hosting your important
the success of your event and offers
corporate events. In addition to
delegates a relaxed environment in
comfortable and modern conference
which to unwind, socialise and network
facilities we also offer a selection of
at the end of the day’s business. We also
smaller meeting room venues for hire;
offer meeting venues and rooms that
suitable for all your business needs, such
can be arranged in a variety of layouts
as holding important briefings or team
such as theatre or classroom, according
building exercises.
to your specific needs. Just tell us what
Our dedicated meeting directors
you need.
ensure that your conference and meeting rooms are fully prepared prior to the start of your event, including the provision of any requested multimedia equipment. Once your event is in full
contact information T: 1800 848 270 W: www.cpireland.ie
flow they will be on hand to quickly
032 Conf2014_Crown Plaza_CF.indd 32
07/04/2014 17:08:46
One Young World Conferencing 2014
33
One Young World
This October sees the One Young World Summit arrive in Dublin with around 2,000 people in tow. Conor Forrest looks a little deeper to discover what the One Young World movement is all about.
I
n 2013, the city of Dublin was
are our future and hosting such a
number of enormous challenges over
chosen as the location for the 5th
significant and inspiring summit is of
the next 50 years as it tries to evolve
annual One World Summit to
key importance not only for now, but
from a consumption-driven economy
for the future.”
to a new, sustainable economy,” said
be held on October 13th 2014. The Convention Centre, Bord Gais Energy
Counsellor and CEO of Unilever, Paul
Theatre and Croke Park are among the
One Young World
venues which will be used to facilitate
One Young World is a charitable,
“The leaders of today are just starting
the summit, and reaction to the choice
not-for-profit organisation with the
to grapple with the challenges; it will
of Dublin has been positive in Ireland.
intention of gathering youth leaders
be the leaders of tomorrow who have
Dublin’s then Lord Mayor, Naoise Ó’
from across the globe for an annual
to deliver the solutions to overcome
Muirí, said: “Dublin city and its people
summit, the aim of which is to develop
them. Our job is to inspire these new
will be the perfect host for the 2014
solutions to the problems plaguing the
leaders to seize the opportunities these
One Young World annual summit.
world in the 21st century. Founded
challenges present.”
As the title suggests, the summit will
in 2009 by David Jones and Kate
involve young dynamic leaders from
Robertson, the charity is based in
than at any other worldwide gathering,
around the world coming together to
the UK, but has an outlook which is
bar the Olympics, the Summit has
discuss key issues. These young people
truly global. “The world is facing a
become a unique forum for ideas.
033 Conf2014_one young world.indd 33
Polman, at the Zurich event in 2011.
With more countries represented
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One Young World Conferencing 2014
35
The idea is to kick-start a new generation of leaders who can express the needs of the many. Young individuals from national and global companies, universities, NGOs and other organisations are joined by other world leaders to act as what are known as the Young World Counsellors. Delegates at the Summits debate issues and formulate innovative solutions for global issues. In previous years, Counsellors have included Sir Richard Branson, Arianna Huffington, Bob Geldof and Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu. When each Summit concludes, delegates then either begin work on their own initiatives, or can make use of the One Young World network to garner support for those programmes already in place. The idea is to kick-start a new generation of leaders who can express the needs of the many, needs which many people feel our current crop of leaders, not just in the world of politics, are either unaware of or
Top: One Young World took place in Johannesburg, South Africa, in 2013. Above: Founders Kate Robertson and David Jones.
are ignoring. “The real idea is to get leaders of government, heads of
‘firecrackers’ who are clearly leading
similar figure attended 2011’s Summit
business and heads of civil society
and doing something. You’re looking
in Pittsburgh, USA, while last year in
who run the world, run countries
for a particular kind of animal. Geldof
South Africa saw the largest delegate
and run enterprises today to listen to
was 28/29 [sic] when he started Band
attendance – 1,250 individuals from
what young people think about the
Aid. Jamie Oliver was 24 when he
190 countries. This year, the spotlight
world, and the things that ought to
[started] the first Fifteen programme.
focuses on Dublin as an estimated 1,500
be happening and ought to be done,”
These people, very, very young, have
delegates, Counsellors, members of
said Kate Robertson, co-founder of
done things.”
the media and observers will descend
One Young World. “To try to change
on the city to share their views on how
the world, to try to prepare that
Ireland
the world’s issues can be tackled, such
next generation who are the most
The inaugural Summit took place in
as human rights, education, global
well-informed, the most educated
2010 in London, and saw 825 delegates
business, health and leadership, to name
and the most connected generation
attending from 114 countries. The
but a few.
in human history – to prepare them
following year, the Summit was awarded
for leadership. You’re looking for
to the city of Zurich in Switzerland;
have the opportunity to bring the One
people you and I would recognise as
171 countries sent 1,200 delegates. A
Young World Summit 2014 to Dublin,
033 Conf2014_one young world.indd 35
“David Jones and I are delighted we
08/04/2014 12:43:30
36
One Young World Conferencing 2014
Current Lord Mayor of Dublin Oisin Quinn, present at the closing ceremony of last year’s Summit in Johannesburg, said: “the One Young World Summit 2014 in Dublin will be about young people being disruptive leaders. It will be about young people taking action and making sure that they are not sleepwalked into the agendas of others. It will be about young people acting locally but thinking globally. So my message is simple – go out and spread the word that One Young World 2014 in Dublin is the place to be if you are interested in making a difference in your life and in the lives of others.”
Praise Speaking on RTÉ’s Morning Ireland programme last year, co-founder Kate Robertson was full of praise for the Irish bid which saw Dublin being awarded the Summit for 2014. “Irish input into this has been absolutely enormous,” she said. “Since the advisory board for One Young World in Dublin took the decision to bid, it’s been an amazing coming together of businesses in Ireland – both Irish businesses and the big multinationals that you have here. The Provost of Trinity, the people who run Croke Top: The impressive opening ceremony from last year’s event in Johannesburg. Above: Previous One Young World Counsellors have included Kofi Annan, Bob Geldof and Richard Branson.
Park, those who run the Convention Centre – it’s a fantastic joint effort.” Judging by past iterations of the
which beat off strong competition
of sustainability, youth unemployment
event, Dublin’s Summit in 2014 is
from Edinburgh and Hong Kong to
and the environment. The bid was
bound to be a success, as the largest
be named host city,” said Robertson.
submitted by Clara Kelleher, Bob
number of delegates in the event’s
“Dublin’s youth, creativity and
Coggins and Valerie McGrane, a trio
short history meets across the capital.
innovation made for a compelling case.
of young leaders who are based in
As a country, we would do well to listen
Its experience hosting top international
Dublin. The bid garnered support
and observe, and put into practice
events and its world-renowned warmth
across the board, from both public and
the ideas which are sure to emanate
and hospitality informed every aspect
private entities. Alongside Croke Park,
from the Summit. As Archbishop Tutu
of the bid. The bid’s theme of ‘1,000
the Bord Gais Energy Theatre and the
expressed following the Summit in
welcomes’ perfectly encapsulates why
Office of Public Works, Musgraves will
2010, “I was inspired by the energy,
we have chosen to bring One World
provide dining services to the incoming
ideas and dynamism of the wonderful
Summit 2014 and its 1,500 delegates to
delegates, while Dublin Bus and Bus
young people I met at One Young
Dublin next year.”
Eireann will combine to provide
World. Young people are changing the
transport options across the city.
world in which we live at an incredible
Fáilte Ireland estimates that the event
pace, and it is important that we listen
The main theme for the Dublin event is
will generate over v3 million for the
to the young leaders of tomorrow
‘1,000 welcomes, Cead Mile Fáilte’, with
hospitality, conferencing and leisure
and encourage them to address the
sessions revolving around the topics
industries in Ireland.
problems in the world today.”
Welcome
033 Conf2014_one young world.indd 36
08/04/2014 12:43:55
MAKE T H E OR D I N A RY LOCATED IN THE HEART OF DUBLIN’S BUSTLING CITY CENTRE, OFFERING 150 STYLISH BEDROOMS AND SUITES. WITH STATE OF THE ART MEETING FACILITIES FOR UP TO 400 DELEGATES. FOR THAT WOW FACTOR, THE EXCLUSIVE 7TH FLOOR SKY SUITE OFFERS STUNNING PANORAMIC CITY VIEWS WITH ITS OWN PRIVATE BAR, PERFECT FOR AN EXCLUSIVE MEETING.
E X T R AOR D I N A RY EXPERIENCE MORE FOR LESS A S W E L L A S C L U B C A R L S O NSM P O I N T S F O R P L A N N E R S W I T H T H E R A D I S S O N B L U R OYA L H OT E L , D U B L I N
RADISSON BLU ROYAL HOTEL, DUBLIN Golden Lane, Dublin 8, Ireland T: +353 1 898 2900 meetings.royal.dublin@radissonblu.com radissonblu.ie/royalhotel-dublin
230125_1C_RADISSON_JR_CON.indd 1
07/04/2014 11:12:15
38
Venue Profile Conferencing 2014
Something Different
Located in the Custom House in Limerick, The Hunt Museum is home to one of Ireland’s greatest private collections of art and antiquities, providing an interesting and different backdrop for your events.
C
by Irish ware and Chinese porcleain,
range of beautiful rooms available within.
and 75 buffet-style. The Library is also
ompletely refurbished in 1996, the Hunt Museum functions as both a respository for art and
history and also as an event venue, with a The Captains’ Room is available for meetings, lectures, seminars, receptions and private dining surrounded by works of art, while the Library can accommodate up to 15 people around a board-room table.
Dining If you’re looking for a special atmosphere, enjoy the ambience of the elegant Captains’ Room surrounded
highly suitable for corporate hospitality. Seasonal menus are available, and the room can hold up to 50 people at dinner, available for private dining functions, providing a discreet environment to entertain guests in privacy. Overlooking the Shannon this 17-person capacity room, which houses the John Hunt
Rooms at the museum can be rearranged to suit your particular needs and requirements (apart from fixed exhibition cases), and all rooms are wheelchair accesible. Catering arrangements and sample menus are available on request, and musical requirements can also be discussed.
Library, is a unique dining venue in the city centre. The café can also seat 70 people for dinner, or cater for a 120-person buffet. Open to the public during the day, the café can be hired privately after 6pm.
contact information
Naomi O’Nolan Event Manager T: 061 312 833 E: naomi@huntmuseum.com.
The Hunt Museum offers a unique experience for small conferences and private functions. The Hunt Collection is housed in the elegant 18th Century Palladian style Custom House overlooking the majestic River Shannon. This diverse collection of art and antiquities was acquired by John and Gertrude Hunt over their lifetimes and dates from Stone Age to modern times. Enjoy the ambience of the elegant Captains’ Room in the surroundings of Irish Art, Delftware and Chinese Porcelain. The purpose built riverside café and the library also offer facilities for Conferences and fine dining. The Hunt Museum, The Custom House, Rutland Street, Limerick www.huntmuseum.com
038 Conf2014_Hunt Museum_CF.indd 38
08/04/2014 08:30:10
A-Z of conferencing Conferencing 2014
Accommodation It’s important to find the right venue, particularly
A
when attendees are
Banquet However large your event is, a banquet is a wonderful way to end things on a high note. Apart from ensuring your guests don’t leave with an empty stomach, it’s also a great way for them to get to know one another. Networking is one of
B
travelling from abroad. If your venue has no
39
the most attractive aspects of a conference for many people, and so a final event provides the ultimate setting for people to do their business.
on-site accommodation, make sure some is available nearby. If not, choose a location with accommodation suitable to your delegates’ needs.
Coaching If your employees are due to make presentations
Check out our list of conferencing do’s and don’t before you begin organising your event.
C
at your conference, but feel a little jittery about speaking in front of a crowd, coaching is a
of conferencing
great idea. There are plenty of public speaking experts available who can transform the weakest speaker into an expert
D
orator.
Emergency Funds When you’re putting your budget together,
E
Décor Entertainment, activities and speakers are all important to the success of a conference, but whatever impact you are trying to create, it will be the venue which makes a lasting impression. There are numerous excellent venues across the country; take the time to choose the one which represents you as an organiser, and the needs of your clients too!
it’s always a good idea to allow around ten per
F
cent for those inevitable last-minute purchases.
Guest Speaker Having a guest speaker can be something which really makes an event,
G
Food
Journeys
Always sample the cuisine available in
Make sure you have got
your venue of choice before you book.
the appropriate transport
Even if the location is stunning, it
available for your delegates,
would be a disaster to find out on the
whether you need to organise
day that the food isn’t up to scratch.
buses, taxis or flights. There
At least if you check beforehand, you
is nothing worse than
will have the option of hiring your own
disorganisation and people
caterers.
hanging around, unsure of their travel arrangements.
particularly if they’re fairly well known (having
J
a talent for comedy doesn’t hurt either). A myriad of speakers
With smaller conferences it’s usually a good idea to meet each guest upon arrival.
Innovation
from all professions and
Making your event a memorable one should be a top priority. If this means
backgrounds are readily
pushing the boat out a little, then do so. Team building activities and
available through services such as speakersolutions.ie
039 Conf2014_A-Z.indd 39
entertainment can prove very popular with delegates, as are goodies bags, both at the beginning and the end of your event.
08/04/2014 12:44:26
40
A-Z of conferencing Conferencing 2014
Keepsakes Finding appropriate gifts for delegates is a must, once your budget allows for
K
Latecomers No matter how effectively you’ve organised your conference,
L
it. There’s no point in wasting money on gimmicks; choose something you know your delegates will want to bring home with them and use in the future.
Murphy’s Law becomes a reality and there are sure to be hiccups, particularly when you are relying on people to arrive on time. You should organise the whole event to run slightly behind schedule. This will, in effect, counteract any unexpected delays to proceedings.
Media Keep abreast of what’s happening in the world of business. Newspapers such as The Irish Times or
M
Name Tags Name tags are one of the key components
the Irish Independent feature business supplements
of any conference. These allow delegates
which can be very useful. The media can also be
N
quite useful in promoting your event, both before and after.
Online Registration If guests are able to register for your conference online, it will make a massive you, the organiser, a much better idea of numbers, as well as the specific individual
members of staff working at the event, should there be any problems.
Photography
O
difference to your event. Firstly this gives
to introduce themselves and recognise
It is a must to have a professional photographer at your
P
needs of your guests. Secondly, online
event, not only so you can produce high-quality images for the press, but also to create a gallery for the event on your website for delegates to download afterwards if they wish to do so. However, be sure to provide your photographer with a list of images that you believe best represent your event. Also,
registration will reduce the time associated
make sure that you have the correct labels under images.
with queueing to register, thus creating a much more enjoyable experience. It would be quite embarrassing if the most memorable part of the conference was the
S
length of the queue!
Technology These days, most conferencing venues have all
Staging The stage will be where all of the magic happens, and where your guests’ attentions will be focussed for the majority of the time. Make sure that your company logo, along with any
T
other necessary corporate logos, are clearly visible to the entire audience.
of the necessary equipment to make your event
Useful Information
a success. If there is something that your venue
Distribute a fact sheet to all delegates on the first day of your
cannot provide, check with your co-ordinator and see if they deal with anyone who can supply what
U
you’re missing. Otherwise you’ll need to hire the equipment from a reliable company, ideally close to the vicinity of the venue.
Welcome Welcomes always leave lasting impressions, so be sure that all of your
W
conference with all essential information. There should also be an information desk, in case there are any major queries or confusion among delegates.
V
Verify Ensure that you have double checked all of your arrangements. It’s a great idea to make lists – and check them twice – to make sure that all of your requirements have been fulfilled.
delegates are taken care of from the
X
moment they arrive. Have a reliable member of staff on the help desk, and have a space where coats, bags and luggage can be left in safe hands.
Conferences can sometimes be a little difficult to navigate, particularly in large venues
Zzzz Organising an event can be quite the ordeal, but try not to make it a tiresome occasion for your delegates. Ensure that you have allocated plenty of time to relax between events and talks, and allow yourself a few moments to catch your breath!
039 Conf2014_A-Z.indd 40
X Marks the Spot
Z
with a big crowd of delegates. Don’t forget to make easyto-read maps for your event which delegates can download or pick up.
08/04/2014 12:44:41
Venue Profile Conferencing 2014
41
FULL SERVICE
Dublin’s newest airport hotel, the Carlton Dublin Airport offers a range of options for all of your conference needs. hotel, located on the ground floor near
for smaller meetings, training sessions
reception. It is a multipurpose venue
or as break out rooms. Car parking is
which can convert into one large or two
complimentary for all delegates along
he Carlton Dublin Airport is the
smaller rooms; it also has a large breakout
with courtesy airport shuttle. Situated
newest four star airport hotel.
area ideal for pre or post meeting
just minutes from Dublin Airport and the
Comprising 100 bedrooms,
T
gatherings. The Collinstown Suite offers a
M50 Motorway, the Carlton Hotel could
two conference suites and 20 dedicated
wide range of meeting styles catering for
not be more conveniently located.
meeting rooms, our enthusiastic
up to 400 delegates, and features multiple
meetings and conference team take care
built in screens; adaptable lighting; air
individually controlled air conditioning
of everything from choice of rooms,
conditioning and good vehicular access.
and heating systems; fully integrated
equipment and technical support, to
Meanwhile, the Clouds Rooftop suite
AV technology; complimentary WiFi;
menus and accommodation.
– our unique rooftop conference room
blackout facilities; mineral water and
– offers uninterrupted views of airport
delegate mints; flipchart; LCD projector
features two conference suites which
runways to the north, Dublin city and
and delegate stationary.
are flexible in design accommodating
bay to the east and the mountains to the
from two to 400 delegates. Both the
south.
The Carlton Dublin Airport Hotel
Collinstown and Clouds suites are fully
We at the Carlton Hotel Dublin Airport
equipped with the latest conference
know that flexibility is key and have
technology. The Collinstown Suite
designed 20 well-proportioned meeting
is the largest conference suite in the
rooms – with natural daylight – ideal
All our meeting rooms feature:
w
CONTACT INFORMATION
T: (01) 8667500 W: ww.carltondublinairport.com
20% OFF ROOM HIRE
Room Hire includes - LCD Projector, Screen, Wifi, Stationary, Water, Mints and Car Parking
Email: meetings@carlton.ie www.carlton.ie/dublinairport
041 Conf2014_Carlton_CF.indd 41
08/04/2014 08:32:31
42
Safety First Conferencing 2014
staying safe Health and Safety has become a major concern in recent years, particularly when it comes to dealing with members of the public. We look at some of the big issues in this arena, and enlist the aid of an event guideline report from Dublin City Council’s events unit. Pre-planning
cover for all workers, and public
you should make sure your venue
The best way to ensure your event is as
liability cover for any attendees. You
has a sufficient number of entrances
safe as possible is to begin planning well
can discuss your specific needs with
and exits which will facilitate orderly
in advance of the date. Every functional
insurance companies or brokers, who
arrival and/or departure procedures.
area of your venue will have health and
may also have conditions you are
Inside your venue, way marking,
safety issues. Conduct and compose a
required to fulfil.
informational signs and first aid and
risk assessment analysis and a written
For example, an outdoor event
emergency exit signs should all be
safety statement concerning those areas
with an anticipated audience of more
which could result in harm to either
than 5,000 people requires a planning
event staff or members of the public.
licence. Though venues should have
Staff
For any hazards which are likely to
public liability cover, the onus is on you
Knowing exactly who is responsible
occur, determine what needs to be done
to ensure you have the appropriate
for what is highly recommended,
to reduce these risks. In case anything
cover. Any events that are held on
particularly for large-scale events. All
does go wrong, a risk assessment
public property will need public
staff should be encouraged to take
shows that you have done your best in
liability insurance, covering individuals
responsibility for matters of health and
predicting and removing dangers or
and organisations in the event of
safety within their own areas.
hazards. It’s best to hire one competent
accident, injury or death, or damage to
individual to oversee the health and
or loss of property by someone acting
Know the Law
safety of your event, and ensure you
with the organisation’s authority.
A number of pieces of legislation cover
are in compliance with regulations,
Make sure any contractors working
clearly marked and visible.
health and safety in the workplace,
monitor staff and contractors and any
for you have insurance and request
and are applicable to events of all sizes.
other involved parties, and co-ordinate
copies of their insurance policies,
Consult the Safety, Health and Welfare
solutions in the event of an incident.
health and safety statements and
at Work Acts 1989 and 2005, the
policies and practices before hiring.
Planning and Development Act 2001:
Insurance
Part XVI, The Fire Services Act 1981
Under law, event organisers are
The Venue
required to have employee liability
Establish likely attendance figures
2003 to ensure complete compliance
and then find a venue of sufficient
with current regulations.
Venue Checklist n Suitable venue capacity for your audience and staff? n Planned emergency exits and routes? n Any hazards posed by existing features or structures on site? n Ground conditions and site topography? n How vehicles and pedestrians will safely access and move around the site? n Proximity of local amenities? n Are there any hazards posed by permanent or temporary underground services or temporary structures? n Are there any relevant health risks arising from animals?
042 Conf2014_Safety First.indd 42
size to accommodate. Other activities
and the Licensing of Indoor Events Act
or facilities at your event should
Expect the unexpected
also be taken into account, such as
It’s always advised that you prepare for
booths, stages or hospitality facilities.
the worst, and expect the unexpected.
Consulting the fire authorities would
While carrying out risk management
be a good step in ensuring you have
and incident prevention, you should
enough space, as is enlisting the help of
put in place procedures in the event
a competent and qualified individual to
of a wide variety of incidents, both
determine structural safety.
minor and major. Ensure you have
Use of advance ticket sales and
procedures and contingency plans
stewards can ensure that attendance
in place in the event of an incident
is manageable. All routes should be
which are compatible with emergency
well signposted for attendees, and
responder needs.
08/04/2014 08:33:14
Venue Profile Conferencing 2014
43
A DISTINCTIVE EXPERIENCE Experience a conference venue like no other in one of Dublin’s finest town houses in the heart of the city. Residence Members Club is four floors of unique and bespoke event spaces which can host anywhere from 10 to 110 people.
S
ituated on St Stephen’s Green, Residence is your discreet, capable, superbly equipped and utterly
need will be looked after and more. To arrange a viewing of the club for your next conferencing date, please
reciprocal clubs in London, Paris, New York and Florida. Residence also offers many unique
dependable partner in whatever the
contact our Events Manager Karen Doyle
and wonderful networking opportunities
business of the day might be. We have an
by email karend@residence.ie or call (01)
throughout the year. To name but a few,
events team ready to carry the burden of
662 0000.
Hub41@Residence brings our members
organising your events and a world class service team to compliment the profile of your business and clientele. You’ve also got the renowned head chef
together with Ireland’s leading industry
Why not consider membership? Membership at Residence confers the
of Restaurant FortyOne, Graham Neville,
following: complimentary, unlimited
and his team on your side to delight your
access to our meeting and event rooms
guests with his sumptuous seasonal menus
throughout the year; access to the club for
where indulgence is encouraged. So
the member, plus four guests; a discount
whether you wish to dine in the restaurant
of ten per cent off food menu prices in
or privately in one of our stunning
Restaurant FortyOne; the benefits of
Georgian rooms, rest assured your every
our affiliates programme; access to our
experts while our golf outings to the country’s leading courses offer some welldeserved downtime.
CONTACT INFORMATION
Tadgh Wright, Membership Co-ordinator E: tadghw@residence.ie T: (01) 662 0000
Residence St. Stephen’s Green Situated in the heart of Dublin’s business district, over-looking St. Stephen’s Green, Residence offers a number of excellent and valuable services to our Members. • Unlimited access to our beautiful Georgian meeting rooms • Complimentary bespoke event spaces for up to 120 people • Private dining for up to 36 guests • Reciprocal clubs include The Club at The Ivy in London, Norwood in NYC, Saint James in Paris & The River Club in Florida • 40+ Member events & networking opportunities per annum • Fine dining at the award winning Restaurant FortyOne
043 Conf2014_Residence_CF.indd 43
To enquire about membership, email tadghw@residence.ie or call 01 662 0000 Open from 8am Monday to Friday and 12 noon on Saturday
09/04/2014 11:40:52
44
Venue Profile Conferencing 2014
Citywest Hotel
Conference & Event Centre This ever adaptable hotel and convention centre just 20 minutes from Dublin city centre welcomed a wide spectrum of events in 2013 and looks forward to an exciting calendar for 2014.
C
The versatile facilities here at Citywest
on-site restaurants, Citywest provides
combined with the ‘Irish Experience’
an ideal destination for residential
allow us to compete on a worldwide
conferences and events. And for
stage to attract events only a handful of
exhibitions, the expansive arena offers
venue used to its full potential and
international venues can accomodate.”
75,000 sq. ft. of ground floor exhibition
itywest has welcomed a record number of delegates and event attendees to the property.
“This superb range of events saw the the feedback from event planners and organisers has been overwhelming,” says Glenn Valentine, General Manager. “Citywest Hotel has always held its position as Ireland’s largest residential conference venue, and we were delighted to bring to Dublin such a wide variety of international conferences including the Mylan Pharmaceuticals Conference, Ernst & Young NSMADP and Watchtower World Convention.
044 Conf2014_Citywest_CF.indd 44
The 4,100 seater Convention Centre at Citywest Hotel played host to some truly magnificent events since
space with a further 39,000 sq. ft. over its two upper levels. The superb range of conference
opening in 2009. From annual sporting
suites available at Citywest Hotel are
competitions, to welcoming over 40,000
the perfect choice for meetings and
attendees to Disney on Ice Dare to
conferences from 2 to 4,100 delegates.
Dream, the expansive transport and
With complimentary Wi-Fi for up to
accommodation infrastructure is unique
2,000 simultaneous users and a variety
to the Irish market. Incorporating 774
of different meeting room configurations
guest rooms, a state-of-the-art health and
available, Citywest can tailor itself to suit
fitness club, 18 hole golf course and two
your specific event requirements.
08/04/2014 08:52:11
Communication Tactics Conferencing 2014
Conference Websites
45
Set up a conference website
Mailing Lists
to help delegates maximise
A Listserv is a mailing
networking opportunities.
list software application
In the lead up to the event,
consisting of a set of email
post travel information, hotel
addresses for a specified
details, conference schedules
group. Listservs are ideal
and pre-conference materials.
for online newsletters,
Following the conference, make
announcement lists,
presentations and conference
discussion
materials available for download,
groups and
while you should also consider
Tip
an online forum to
Tip
When sending out pre-conference registration mailings and post-conference feedback, send via Listserv and hard copy mailing to ensure you reach all delegates.
allow delegate discussion
Make sure your website is password protected if you will be uploading confidential material.
before and after the conference.
When trying to secure media coverage for your conference, be sure to do your research and make sure that other major events aren’t overlapping with yours. There are a number of marketing techniques you can employ to maximise coverage throughout the event, such as organising photocalls, writing press releases with teaserresearch tidbits and booking high-
For annual and bi-annual conferences, it falls to the organiser to engage delegates in the intervening time. Conferencing 2014 brings you the best in postconference communication tactics to maximise the impact of your conference.
profile, celebrity speakers.
If you plan on sending photos out to news desks or online news services, have a member of the event management team accompany the photographer, taking down photographed delegates’ names and organisations. This will ensure no mistakes will be made when photos are published elsewhere.
045 Conf2014_Memorable.indd 45
Try www. lsoft.com.
Making it Memorable
Media Coverage
Media Coverage TIP
conferences.
Feedback Survey Surveys can demonstrate how conference organisers add value, and how the conference and its material has impacted delegates. Develop feedback survey questions including a review of logistics, from pre-conference communications to on-site delivery, catering and facilities. Ask your delegates to comment on each of the speakers. You can do this via a hard-copy survey or try an online survey creator
Tip
such as www.surveymonkey.com.
Photography
For annual Action Plans conferences, compile Snapshots of your conference To inspire delegates to commit delegate responses into a can be used in future to ‘doing the work’ once they’ve spreadsheet so that feedback brochures and promotional left the conference environment, can be easily tracked and materials. You can also have them complete an action presented to stakeholders at the conference upload them on the plan stating where they are now Tip debrief. conference website, and where they would like to be in Remember to let or photo-sharing six weeks, three months and a year. speakers and delegates sites such as In discussion groups, encourage them to know that photographs will Flickr. Give your brainstorm steps to achieve their goals and be taken at the event and ask them to sign a general photographer a system for benchmarking progress. release at the registration a list of all the Then, email each delegate a copy Tip: desk. key moments to of his/her action plan at the To take action be captured, such halfway point to their end goal, plans a step further, have delegates find a colleague as the CEO shaking the along with an encouraging and set a date to speak on keynote speaker’s hand. message. the phone and discuss one another’s progress.
08/04/2014 15:10:05
46
Venue Profile Conferencing 2014
Conferencing at Castlemartyr Castlemartyr Resort offers modern facilities in a timeless environment.
the fine dining experiences on offer at The Bell Tower Restaurant at the Manor House, the casual dining option in Franchini’s, the stylish and fun Clubhouse at Castlemartyr Resort and Knights Bar, with its renowned Irish whisky collection.
The Facilities With its own dedicated entrance and classic views of the Irish countryside, the Capel Suite is a strikingly glamorous glass-enclosed hall suitable for a wide array of conference-centered activities. Complete with dramatic chandeliers and magnificent white cascading drapes, it can be arranged in presentation format (up to 250 guests), for banqueting (up to 200), u-shaped conferring (60), cabaret-style (120) or classroom (150). A testament to clever design, the suite is self-contained, with its own pre-reception area, bar, restrooms, and terrace. For smaller gatherings, the manor house itself offers several options. The Youghal Room is suitable for eight people working boardroom-style. Its natural daylight, blackout facilities,
B
built-in 50-inch plasma screen with
usiness leaders have always had
southern Ireland. Set on the 220 acre
laptop connectivity, and wireless
a keen eye for true value, and no
estate the resort also features the ruins
internet access emphasise elegant
more so than when they gather
of a storied 800-year-old castle, a rolling
efficiency. The Midleton Room features
to focus on ‘the business of business.’
meadow, mature woodlands, ancient
the same enhancements as the Youghal
Professionalism, dedication, efficiency
walled gardens, and a lake graced with
Room, but can accommodate up to
and a bit of fun are the watchwords
swans. The manor house interiors
ten. Similar enhancements grace the
there – and when it comes to corporate
incorporate many original features,
Ladysbridge Room, suitable for 14
gatherings, no one delivers them
including the ornate Rococo ceiling in
people, with the added amenity of its
quite like Castlemartyr Resort. A fully
the former ballroom, while the suites
own breakout or anteroom. Finally,
fashioned destination event property
open out to a sunlit hallway framed by a
the Kiltha Room, overlooking the
with 103 guestrooms, the resort offers
graceful grand staircase.
lush meadows and lake, can host up
a priceless blend of elegant settings,
Other distinctive features of
to 70 guests for intimate dining and
Castlemartyr Resort include The
comfortably accommodate 80 conferees
Spa at Castlemartyr featuring ESPA,
in various arrangements. LCD
a spectacular wellness center that
projectors and audio-visual equipment
Castlemartyr Resort is situated in
redefines luxury and personal service;
can be arranged for each of these
the serene and lovely countryside of
Castlemartyr Links Golf Club, with
facilities on request.
flexible facilities, and impeccable service.
The Settings
its 18-hole inland links-style Irish
contact information
T: (021) 421 9000 E: info@castlemartyrresort.ie W: www.castlemartyrresort.ie
046 Conf2014_Castlemartyr_CF.indd 46
Equally sophisticated is the dining
Championship par 72 golf course; and
that guests will enjoy while attending an
a range of classic and contemporary
event at Castlemartyr Resort. Set menu
outdoor pursuits including archery, laser
options are inspired by those offered
clay shooting, fly casting and fishing,
in The Bell Tower Restaurant or The
and quad biking. Not to be forgotten is
Garden room at the Manor House.
08/04/2014 08:56:16
ConferenCes | Meeting rooMs | Private Dining | teaM BuilDing
Take the team away from the everyday distractions of the office. Tucked away in the East Cork countryside, Castlemartyr Resort is a haven of inspiration, conveniently located only 30 minutes from Cork Airport and 150 minutes from Dublin, 70 minutes from Waterford.
Meeting & ConferenCe sPaCes • Cabaret • Classroom • Reception • Banqueting
from 20 to 180 delegates from 20 to 150 delegates from 30 to 300 delegates from 50 to 220 delegates
We have the facilities to cater for meetings, conferences, teambuilding days, seminars along with private dining, banquets and cocktail receptions.
Email: sales@castlemartyrresort.ie Phone: 021 421 9013 www.castlemartyrresort.ie
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07/04/2014 11:13:11
48
Spread the Word Conferencing 2014
Marketing Tactics n List It Built up lists for your marketing efforts. Consider websites, industry publications, internet directories, industry-related annual reports, trade associations, literature from competitor’s events, press releases and newspapers. n Stay In Touch Keep track of each delegate’s preferred method of communication. Does he or she prefer post mailing or emailing? Calls to mobile, home or office? If an email bounces, pick up the phone! n Mail Magic Grab attention by highlighting the benefits of attending your conference. A simple ‘P.S., don’t forget to register in time to receive a discount on your conference registration fee,’ is an effective way to get the call to action across. Bespoke mailing geared towards a specific audience will get your message through effectively. Marketers say the response rate for new dimensional mailings is in the region of 25-50 per cent. n Online Promotion Set up a conference website that is easily navigated with a high level of consistency to attract a high level of readership. Promote your website online through search engine optimisation and offline in your promotional materials.
048 Conf2014_Spread the word.indd 48
spread the word Conferencing 2014 puts together a six-month plan to successfully market your conference.
I
n order to develop a successful
audience isn’t considered when
conference marketing strategy,
developing the marketing plan. Social,
organisers should begin by looking
cultural, technological, physical,
at the conference objectives: What do
economical, political, legal, competitive
you want to achieve? How will you
and demographic factors all come into
benchmark/measure your achievement?
play. When creating your conference’s
Are you attempting too much? Do you
marketing strategy, research the
have sufficient resources? What is the
relevant sector and ensure that your
timeline for achieving your objective?
conference content is competitive
Common Pitfalls Marketing fails when the target
and cutting-edge. Determine the conference’s unique selling point and build this into the marketing strapline.
08/04/2014 08:57:57
Spread the Word Conferencing 2014
for this group. Check out competitor
Terminology such as ‘the best...’ or ‘leading company in...’ is effective in drawing potential delegates so be sure to research these options. When determining the attendance goals, think about demographic factors. For example, if you’re hosting a conference for dance instructors, are there enough dance schools in the region or do you need to reach out
49
Have a green conference? Create a digital version of your conference brochure and send by email. Soft copy marketing materials are much more ecofriendly.
campaigns in order to ascertain that your approach is fresh and original. Internal factors and resources, such as having won an award, can also be helpful marketing tools.
Objectives Begin drafting your conference marketing plan by refining your
to other areas? Issues such as this will
objectives. Refer to your initial
impact on the marketing strategy. You
objective – what did you plan to
must ensure that the resources are
achieve? A typical conference objective
available to market to a wide pool of
can then be tailored to fit these smaller
might be to raise awareness among
potential delegates.
audiences. Though it may seem
delegates and position the company
like a daunting task, the return on
as a market leader. Working from
investment is significantly higher when
this, you can develop more specific
Once you have established a viable
marketing efforts are comunicated in a
conference objectives (e.g. gain 50 new
target audience, being splitting this
personal and relevant way as opposed
members).
large group into bite-sized pieces,
to a generalised mass mailing.
Target Your Audience
brainstorming marketing avenues
Additionally, think about stakeholder
Conference objectives are essential for guiding the development of
to reach each segment. You may
interests, competitor campaigns and
the marketing plan. Marketing
initially establish that you are targeting
internal factors such as experience or
strategies vary by sector, size and
‘bankers’, which can be broken down
resources. Stakeholders, such as board
specification and, while there isn’t
into CEOs, directors, managers, etc.
members, can offer valuable insight
a specific formula for success, a
Segmenting by sector makes your
into marketing strategies. For instance,
key rule to remember is to keep all
audience more specific, i.e. investment
if a stakeholder is a well-known figure
communications personal and relevant
bankers, futures traders, venture
within a target audience segment, he/
and use your marketing plan in order
capitalists and so on. Marketing efforts
she can personalise marketing letters
to stay on track.
Six-Month Plan
Ideally, conference organisers need to allocate six months to market a conference. Here’s how to spend this time wisely! Month
1
n Drawing on your target audience research, develop a marketing strapline to get attention. n Launch an email campaign covering the basics (the conference date, time, location and objectives) and use the strapline. n If delegates who have previously attended the conference will be targeted, personalise their email by saying, “We will hope to see you again this year!”
048 Conf2014_Spread the word.indd 49
Month
2&3
n Begin to develop the conference brochure. n Secure a full schedule of speakers and include their information in the brochure. n Towards the end of the third month, send out promotional postcards repeating the information from the promotional campaign but with added detail. Include registration time, conference
Month
closing time, venue information, session topics and speakers’ names. Use colours, fonts and images that will be reflected in the brochure and remember to personalise the messages for your target audience(s) wherever possible.
4
Month
5
Month
6
n Follow up the n Execute further n Send the postcard mail-out marketing efforts conference with phone calls to in the immediate brochure. drive attendance. n Follow up the lead-up to the By tracking these conference. brochure with calls you can update phone calls to n Continue with contact details follow-ups via continue to drive in your database telephone and attendance. to improve your email. delegate records. n Begin n Complete design developing onand production site conferencing on the conference materials and brochure, including signage and a complete schedule consistent branding. for the event. NOTE: n Draft a marketing For best results, letter tailored to communicate in a each segment to personal and relevant way send out with the as opposed to a generalised brochure. mass mailing.
08/04/2014 08:58:19
50
Venue Profile Conferencing 2014
Experience a world of difference at Belfast Waterfront One of the world’s top convention centres has been given the go ahead for a £29.5 million expansion.
further enhance its reputation as a top quality venue. Belfast Ambassador Professor Linda Johnston from Queen’s University, who was instrumental in bringing more than 400 delegates from 35 countries around the world to Belfast Waterfront explains: “The International Neonatal Nursing conference had not been held in this region for a number of years. Belfast Waterfront…represented a unique opportunity to showcase the city of Belfast as a gateway to Europe and beyond and…highlight the spirit that epitomises the people and culture of Belfast and Northern Ireland. The senior management were there with us from the very beginning with the advice and support we needed, and the front-ofhouse staff completed that journey with us, providing a level of professional and friendly service that made the experience actually enjoyable for the members of the organising committee.” The venue is equally suited to smaller more intimate events. An Droichead enjoyed a gala evening in one of the venue’s fabulous glass-fronted bar areas with spectacular views of the city and riverside. Dr Pól Deeds, An Droichead co-ordinator, comments: “The layout, the
I
view, the décor all made for the perfect
nternationally recognised for
Recently named Best Conference and
setting and provided an extravagant
outstanding service, Belfast
Incentive City destination, Belfast has
backdrop to our gala dinner. The staff
Waterfront’s stunning architecture
become a vibrant and happening city
couldn’t have been nicer and we felt
epitomises the best in contemporary
that will stir the imagination and appeal
really well looked after, especially given
design, with spectacular city views and
to a wide range of delegates. Belfast
that we hadn’t organised an event like
flexible spaces suitable for any event from
enjoys direct air links to 33 UK, and 41
this before. The audio-visual element was
10 to 2,000+ delegates. By 2016 a new
European/international destinations.
extremely important part of the event
4,000m2 development will fully integrate
Dublin is just 90 minutes away with
and again this was all taken care of for us.
with the existing facility, doubling the
direct flights to 27 UK airports and 104
Highly recommend this venue for any
size of the venue. The newly extended
across Europe.
event, day or night.”
venue will provide flexible multi-purpose
Belfast Waterfront enjoys an enviable
Jennifer Patterson, revenue and
space, with 4,900m2 of flexible flat floor
national and international clientele,
business generation manager at Belfast
space, a 2,000-seat auditorium, 380-seat
from multi-national companies to
Waterfront adds: “We are continually
studio and 17 meeting rooms for 10 to
associations, academic institutions to
raising the bar in conferencing facilities
200 delegates. Ideally situated in the
trade unions, staging conferences,
and this is set to continue with our
heart of Northern Ireland’s capital city,
seminars, exhibitions, banquets and
planned £29.5million expansion offering
and with easy access to the main rail,
award ceremonies. The venue has also
more choice, greater flexibility and even
air and sea terminals, it is also within
worked with some of the biggest names
bigger space for event organisers to host
walking distance of many of the city’s top
in the worlds of politics, show business
larger and more elaborate events.”
attractions, fine restaurants and hotels.
and sport. Its track record of exceptional
For more, visit www.waterfront.co.uk
Continued investment has radically
customer service together with the
or email conference@waterfront.co.uk or
changed Belfast’s commercial landscape.
exciting expansion programme will
call +44 (0)28 9033 4400.
050 Conf2014_Belfast Waterfront_CF.indd 50
08/04/2014 12:45:46
Belfast Waterfront. At the heart of it all.
Belfast Waterfront was one of three runners-up in the 2012 AIPC Apex Award for the World’s Best Convention Centre.
One building. So many possibilities. Choose the award-winning Belfast Waterfront for your next conference. • Prime city centre location • Ease of access from across the UK and Europe • Purpose-built, flexible conference, meeting and exhibition spaces • Accommodating from 10 to 2000 • Experienced technical and events team For an event to remember, contact us now. T. 028 9033 4400 E. conference@waterfront.co.uk www.waterfront.co.uk
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52
Technology Conferencing 2014
sli.do Winner of the Best Event Startup category at the Event Technology Awards in London last November, sli.do is a webbased application for speakers and event organisers, using questions and live polls to encourage audience interaction. The audience can vote on the best questions for the speaker to address, and the best questions will appear in real time on an interactive wall. It’s a clever invention, and helps event professionals make their event that much more innovative, interesting and engaging.
Conferize Already used by many conference organisers, Conferize recently raised v1 million in capital, so it must be doing something right. It acts as a single destination for all conference marketing needs – displaying everything related to your event in one interactive community destination. It’s easier for your attendees, who can access speaker and schedule information, watch live feeds, view highlights and browse related activity, and for organisers who can sell tickets, easily promote their event and measure its impact.
photo sharing website Pinterest, providing a tool which could be used for information-based purposes by the events industry. With place pins and using maps provided by foursquare, pins can be placed on certain locations, containing contact details, location information
easily find entertainment or dining options nearby.
Vine The mobile app acquired by Twitter and launched last year has begun to be employed by events industry professionals in recent times. Useful alongside an active
Twitter/Facebook presence,
Everybody is on Twitter these days it
it’s a fun and different way
seems, from your next door neighbour
to let people know about
to your elderly grandmother. It’s not
your event – the six second
simply about presence, however, but
video format means you can
how you make use of it. It’s a great
actually show prospective
resource for promoting your event
attendees what they can
beforehand, encouraging discussion with
expect, in motion, rather
prospective attendees and following up
than simply telling them.
when it’s all over. Live feeds
052 Conf2014_Useful Technology.indd 52
newest developments from
event. Attendees can also
Conferencing 2014 takes a look at some of the latest online technological tools event planners can take advantage of this year.
planners and event managers, and offers guest list management through a cloud-based check-in portal. iOS-enabled, it has already seen use by the likes of HBO and NY Fashion Week, helping organisations make the move from paper-based guest lists to mobile. Easy to use, all guest data is stored in the cloud and check in information alerts are available on multiple devices, as is the option to add new guests in real time.
Place Pins is one of the
or photos from your venue/
online tools zkipster Swiss startup zkipster is designed specifically for PR
Glean
from events, for example,
Glean helps event organisers to get a handle on their use of social media. Divide your community into groups and track their impact, and receive reports on how your Twitter account is doing. You can also analyse your social campaigns through filters and groups, monitor the community you’ve created and take part.
are underrated, and can enhance attendee
Exhibitor information, location or venue vines can all be used to inform attendees. Ask your
experiences and
followers to make their own
impact on word of
vines, particularly during
mouth for future
your event, to help create
events.
more buzz.
08/04/2014 09:01:38
Venue Profile Conferencing 2014
53
Secluded Style
Located in tranquil surroundings yet close to major urban centres, The K Club offers the perfect mix of seclusion and connectivity.
T
he K Club in County Kildare
the latest in audiovisual and internet
provides the ideal location for
technology. Situated in the small town of
conferences and business events
Straffan in County Kildare, the venue is
in Ireland. Located a mere 30 minutes
located only 35 minutes from Dublin’s
from Dublin Airport and Dublin city
international airport and Dublin city
centre, The K Club offers the ideal
centre.
location. Discreet yet accessible, secluded yet connected, The K Club is the perfect
Conference Planning
venue for both business and pleasure.
The hotel has a variety of private function
Whether you require a stylish venue for
rooms - from contemporary meeting
smaller meetings, a more ornate room
rooms to elegant suites. A wide range
for private lunches or a large conference
of group leisure activities, such as spa,
room, we can accommodate conferences
golf, outdoor pursuits and team building
for as many as 300 people.
activities at the resort will keep all your guests entertained. Holding an event
Practical
here is simple; our individual quotes cater
If you are organising a business event,
for all your needs from the outset. The
a conference or a special celebration in
K Club’s event team takes care of the big
Ireland, you will find The K Club is a
picture and the smallest details, to ensure
practical, inspirational and innovative
your event runs smoothly from start to
venue, with each meeting space including
finish. So let our team look after yours.
contact information
T: 01 6017200 E: sales@kclub.ie W: www.kclub.ie
The K Club
For all your Meeting & Conference requirements Where business becomes a pleasure Full Day Delegate Package From €55.00 per delegate 24 Hour Delegate Rates From €235.00 per delegate
Please contact our dedicated Meetings & Events team Telephone : +353 1 601 7200 Email: sales@kclub.ie Website: www.kclub.ie
053 Conf2014_KClub_CF.indd 53
11/04/2014 17:42:59
54
Identity Parade Conferencing 2014
identity Parade
Conferencing 2014 explores the various methods of expanding corporate identities throughout a conference, including ensuring your branding makes it through to your consumers, and how you can learn useful lessons from previous successful events.
T
he main focus of many events, especially corporate conferences, is brand
promotion. Events can be very successful at increasing brand identity and raising awareness of associated products. However, branding can take on many forms and be used for different reasons. It could be used to highlight the event sponsor(s) or to embellish your venue by creating a theme. The objective of your conference will determine your branding and you can get creative from there. What you brand and how much
054 Conf2014_Identity Parade.indd 54
08/04/2014 09:08:03
At the Heart of the City…
The Wood Quay Venue is an imaginative and exciting development which houses the Dublin City Wall Conference Space. With a capacity for 120 people, this state of the art conference space which features a stretch of the original Viking City Wall is an ideal location to host a conference/meeting/exhibition. Situated in the grounds Dublin City Council’s Civic Offices, Wood Quay, Dublin 8, the Wood Quay Venue, City Wall Space is available to hire for daytime, evening and weekend events.
/woodquayvenue
@woodquayvenue
Ph: 01 222 2857 /2223329 Email: woodquayvenue@dublincity.ie • Web: www.woodquayvenue.ie
Lough Eske Castle, a stunning location for your Conference or Corporate Event
For further details contact Sinead: 074 97 43130 • Email: sinead.mcgowan@solishotels.com
LOUGH ESKE CASTLE Donegal Town, Co. Donegal, Ireland
055 Conf2014_DubCity_Lough Eske.indd 9
T +353 (0)74 97 25100 · F +353 (0)74 97 23762 E reservations.lougheske@solishotels.com www.solislougheskecastle.ie
Best Luxury Country Hotel in the World - Luxury Hotel Awards Best Service Innovation - European Hospitality Awards Top 3 luxury hotels in Ireland - Conde Nast readers Poll 2013
11/04/2014 17:47:14
56
Identity Parade Conferencing 2014
branding used will be determined
This will be the how, what, where,
most effective, is linking your brand
by two things: your budget and the
when and why of your marketing plan;
or event with another corporate
size of your venue. Needless to say, if
not forgetting to whom you plan on
identity. ‘Piggybacking’ can create
your venue is small, your costs will be
communicating and delivering your
greater publicity for your event but it
considerably less.
brand messages. Where you advertise,
will have to be of equal benefit for the
your distribution channels and what
relationship to work. You have to be
Make Your Mark
you communicate visually and verbally
able to offer your sponsor a suitable
There are two forms of branding:
are all part of your brand strategy also.
package in reciprocation. The great
direct and unconventional. Direct
advantage to the sponsor is that you,
branding includes signage, delegate
Stand Out
the organiser, can offer substantial
name badges and lanyards, stationery
Every day, consumers are bombarded
and useful information on a specified
(notebooks, pens and folders
with advertising and promotional
target market. For example, as the
distributed to delegates), flash memory
material. You have to ensure that
official sponsor of the GAA Hurling
keys, merchandise (takewaway
your branding will make it through
Championship, Etihad are able to reach
hoodies, hats, padfolios) and event
the noise to your target audience by
their target audience by using hurling
staff uniforms. Unconventional
carefully selecting the appropriate
games and advertising of upcoming
branding, also known as ‘guerilla
means to suit your needs. Successful
matches to promote their services.
marketing’ is not as obvious as direct
branding is clear, consistent, interesting
branding and can include clever ways
and memorable. Remember that your
one sponsor, sponsorship can be broken
of targeting marketing material and
brand tells your story, so make it an
down into levels. Platinum, gold, silver
branding at your audience. Some
interesting one.
and bronze sponsorship packages
examples of unconventional branding
In recent years, the Taste Festivals
If the event lends itself to more than
can be offered to various companies,
are projecting images associated with
– Taste of Dublin and Taste of Cork –
depending on the agreement and
the brand onto a screen or wall, use
effectively developed a recognisable
spend. An event such as the St Patrick’s
of décor (flowers, chairs, drapes,
brand and logo within their niche.
Festival would have many sponsors
candles) in the brand colours, plus
They used this to promote the event
and the conference branding would
social networking, teaser advertising
through advertising and photo-shoots;
be organised in accordance with
and virals that lead people to an online
signage at the front entrances and all
the levels of sponsorship. Venue
brochure or website to discover more.
around the venues, on brochures, press
sponsorship is another method of
packs, lanyards, event tickets, event
piggyback branding. The importance
is another way to introduce an extra
staff uniforms and chefs’ uniforms.
of venue selection cannot be denied
element to your event. Dual branding
They even created their own branded
and the growing trend of venue
is a mixture of company branding
currency for the event – Florins –
sponsorship means that certain
and theme branding. Themes often
which were used to buy food and drink
locations have become inextricably
adopted for corporate events are
throughout the festival. Building such
linked with successful brands. By
‘Power’, ‘Growth’, ‘The Future’ or
a strong and prominent brand identity
choosing a sponsored venue for your
‘Strength’. Your conference objective
is what has made the Taste Festivals
conference, you benefit from that
will lead you in deciding a theme for
the most recognisable food festivals in
same linkage. This is most useful
your conference. For example, St
Ireland.
when the sponsoring brand and the
Theme branding (or topic branding)
Patrick’s Festival is a huge event held
The use of colour in branding is
event venue complement one another.
annually in Ireland and, while the
very important to how your audience
National stadiums and arenas have
objective of the parade is to promote
perceives your brand, as each colour
been associating themselves with major
Ireland and Irish culture, the event
invokes an emotion and allows the
brands, such as the Aviva Stadium and
co-ordinators will also assign a theme to
audience to associate that feeling with
the O2.
the event and parade each year.
your products and objectives. Blue
Whatever the reason or objective
is an overwhelming favourite as it is
for your event or conference, there
based on the conference objectives, tied
seen as trustworthy, dependable and
are significant benefits to developing
in with the marketing plan and carried
committed – hence its use in so many
a branding strategy. Defining what
through everything from stationery
corporate logos and brands.
your conference objectives are will
Creating a brand strategy that is
determine your branding needs,
to decoration or signage on-site will help you focus your marketing plan. A
Sponsorship
while building a strong brand identity
sound brand strategy is the foundation
Probably one of the most common
can lead to sponsorship that will be
of corporate identity development.
forms of branding, and often the
mutually beneficial.
054 Conf2014_Identity Parade.indd 56
08/04/2014 09:08:17
Venue Profile Conferencing 2014
57
Ireland’s Most Spectacular Lakeshore Conference Venue Situated on the shores of Blessington Lakes, Tulfarris Hotel & Golf Resort boasts picture postcard views, outstanding cuisine, a championship course and state of the art conference facilities.
W
hether it’s a conference for
can tailor-make any package to suit your
use the event area in our Manor House
320 people or a strategy
needs and will ensure prompt, efficient
where your party can enjoy the luxury of
day for your senior
delivery. The real test of a successful
the magnificently restored 18th century
management, the purpose-built, flexible
event is the reaction of the participants
manor suites, drawing rooms, private
spaces for meetings and events at
and glowing testimonials re-assure the
dining room and library.
Tulfarris cater for all your conferencing
dedicated conference team that customer
needs. The chic interiors are decorated
service is always a priority at Tulfarris.
dinner options are all available in our
in cool, neutral tones and the chandeliers
But it doesn’t have to be all work;
gastronomically renowned Lime Tree
add a sense of understated elegance, but
beyond the boardroom Tulfarris offers
Restaurant where you will be met with
it’s the incredible views from the floor
an inspiring choice of activities, from
unparalleled hospitality. Only 25 minutes
to ceiling windows that will truly wow
barbecues on the terrace to team
from the M50 and within easy reach of
your guests. The latest A.V. and internet
building activities on the lawns or the
Dublin Airport, our idyllic setting is just
connectivity equipment; individual
lakes, not to mention one of Ireland’s
waiting to host your corporate event.
climate control; ergonomic furniture;
premier parkland golf courses.
flawless service; delicious food and a
Unlimited refreshment, lunch and
The bonus of having an elegant
stunning setting combine with meticulous
4-star hotel ensures your staff or clients
planning to deliver your perfect event.
can recharge and relax after a full day
With six versatile conference rooms,
of meetings, with 24 hour delegate
we at Tulfarris pride ourselves on
packages starting from 099 per person.
adapting to our client’s requirements. We
Or, for something extra special, why not
contact information
T: (045) 867 600 E: banq@tulfarris.com W: www.tulfarrishotel.com
Tulfarris Hotel & Golf Resort provides one of the most impressive and well located conference centres in the country. Our purpose built and flexible spaces are ideal for all types of meetings and events. Whether it is a conference for 320 people, staff incentive or training, or a strategy day for your senior management we can cater for it all. • Within easy reach of Dublin and Dublin Airport • Daily Delegate Packages start from k29 per person • 24 Hour Delegate Package based on 2 sharing a Deluxe Twin Room start from k99 per person
Contact our professional and experienced team to find out about our wide array of tailored delegate packages.
Tulfarris Hotel & Gold Resort, Blessington Lakes, Co. Wicklow Tel: +353 (0) 45 867 600 Email:banq@tulfarris.com www.tulfarrishotel.com
057 Conf2014_Tulfarris_CF.indd 57
11/04/2014 17:50:06
58
Sponsorship Conferencing 2014
Covering Your Costs Revenue from event registration doesn’t always cover the gap, and money through sponsorship agreements can often be enough to cover the difference. Conferencing 2014 offers a few tips for attracting event sponsorship.
3 Prepare Your Sponsorship Package Identify those places around your event location which could be used for sponsors to display their logo, in combination with other potential marketing opportunities, such as free branded products or booths. Take a look at other events and at the more exclusive or unusual promotional opportunities offered by the organisers. Providing demographic data from previous events is big plus, as is a welldeveloped marketing strategy. Before you approach your chosen company with a proposal, look into their history, goals, brand image and any recent advertising/sponsorship campaigns and their target audience,
1 Identify Potential Sponsorship Identify your audience and their
highlight the benefits of sponsoring your event. In addition, make sure you don’t
spending habits, and create a list of
show up with an updated generic
suitable businesses and organisations
proposal. Customised proposals
who could benefit from sponsoring
which focus on the sponsor benefits
the event. Research each potential
and highlight an in-depth knowledge
candidate carefully – look for previous
of the company and their brand are
sponsorships and company sponsorship
appreciated; knowing what you’re
guidelines, and ensure that they have
talking about will impress them, and
a target audience and brands which
could make them more likely to accept
will overlap with your conference
your offer.
attendees. Make sure to begin at least six months before the event; giving
4 On the Day
both parties time to organise, and allow
Ensure that sponsor delegates are just
the sponsor time to adjust their budget
as well looked after as your attendees
if needs be.
and speakers. Assign a member of staff
2 The Meeting
to assist them throughout the event. If they have a good experience this time
Many sponsorship seekers make the
around, that might make them more
mistake of viewing the first face-to-
likely to come on board in the future.
face meeting as a sales pitch. Think of
058 Conf2014_Event Sponsorship.indd 58
and provide the data which will
it as a conversation. Don’t see it as an
5 Post Event
opportunity to simply sell your event,
When the dust settles, send a thank
view it as a chance to fine tune the
you letter to all sponsors, alongside the
research you have already completed, to
relevant facts and figures. A personal
demonstrate your professionalism, your
touch is often remembered, which
organisational skills and, ultimately, elicit
could come in handy if you return cap-
a sponsorship proposal.
in-hand next year!
08/04/2014 09:11:10
Venue Profile Conferencing 2014
59
Mount Wolseley Hotel, Spa & golf resort The Complete Conference Experience
Situated in Tullow County Carlow, this four star deluxe resort property is just one hour from Dublin and is the jewel in the crown of conference venues in the South East.
H
complemented by 143 deluxe bedrooms with the added advantage of 48 self
with the accolades to show for this
Resort offers 13 professionally appointed
catering lodges on the estate offering a
commitment.
conference, meeting and dining rooms.
mix of three and four bedrooms each.
ost to an array of prestigious
The extensive meeting facilities are
from Trip Advisor, the property
conferences and events, Mount
consistently delivers quality service,
Wolseley Hotel, Spa & Golf
Competitive 24 hour and Day Delegate
The flexible portfolio can cater for a wide
The luxurious leisure and spa
rates are available and the conference
range of configurations, with a maximum
facilities along with the renowned
and banqueting team is proficient in
capacity of 800 theatre-style and 500 for
Mount Wolseley golf course allow this
working with conference organisers
dining.
regal property to offer the complete
to ensure budget and operational
experience for corporate and leisure
requirements are met at all times.
The self-contained Conference & Banqueting Suite offers a private entrance
guests alike. Mount Wolseley was nominated the
and reception area, ideal for preregistration and tea/coffee breaks. There is
Event Property of the year for 2012
ample space for exhibition purposes and
at the Event Industry Awards and the
the layout allows delegates to pass through
luxurious Wolseley Spa was awarded the
the exhibition area, which ensures
Tatler Spa of the Year Award for 2012.
maximum exposure for exhibitors.
Holder of the Certificate of Excellence
contact information
Sheena McCanny, Mount Wolseley Hotel, Spa & Golf Resort Tullow, Co Carlow T: (059) 918 0100 E: smccanny@mountwolseley.ie W: www.mountwolseley.com
A Jewel in the Crown of Conference & Event Venues
• Best Conference & Hotel Venue 2012 • 15 Professionally Appointed Conference & Banqueting Suites • Capacities up to 800 Theatre Style & 500 for Banquets • Self Contained Exhibition Area • 143 Deluxe Bedrooms & Suites
• 48 Self Catering Lodges on the Resort • Tatler Spa of the Year 2012 & Extensive Leisure Club • Award Winning Christy O’Connor designed 18 Hole Golf Course • Green Site Areas for Outdoor Activities • 500 Complimentary Parking Spaces
A Tranquil Resort, The Perfect Backdrop For Your Business Contact: Sheena McCanny, Mount Wolseley Hotel, Spa & Golf Resort, Tullow, Co. Carlow T: 059 9180100 | E: smccanny@mountwolseley.ie | W: www.mountwolseley.ie
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09/04/2014 11:47:40
60
Technology Trends Conferencing 2014
Tracking the Trends
Conferencing 2014 takes a look at the technology trends tipped for success in 2014.
Geofence
Making sense of data
Event transactions
Wearable tech
A geofence is a
Described earlier this
Google Glass has already
virtual fence which
Data insight and data
year as a game-changer
been launched, as have
rings a real world
analysis have become
in event technology, Near
a range of smartwatches.
location. When a
some of the biggest
Field Communication
While some are dubious
mobile device using
buzzwords in recent
(NFC) exchanges data
as to whether there is a
a geofencing service
times. Organisers are
between two NFC-capable
longterm future for these
crosses through
tipped to become much
devices. Some events
products, it’s expected
the virtual fence, it
more aware of how
have already being using
that 2014 will see their
receives a notification.
important proper data
NFC in the form of smart
popularity at events and
The possibilities for
insight can be, and as
wristbands and badges,
conferences across the
event organisers are
a result, increasingly
mostly for purposes of
globe rise. Google Glass,
clear – automatic
use web and mobile
registration or interaction
for example, could be
registration becomes
solutions to gain insight
with other attendees,
used to provide facial
possible by simply
not just into events
but smartphone-based
recognition when you
crossing into your
but the attendees, and
NFC is the real game
just can’t remember the
venue, targeted
tailor future events
changer. Besides checking
name that goes with
messages can be
to individual needs.
in and networking
that face, or as a handy
sent out to certain
Planners, for example,
NFC can also be used
source of unseen notes for
attendees by event
using data from location
for making contactless
speakers who lose their
exhibitors, such as
services, could see which
transactions – organisers
train of thought. For event
information on their
areas of their event, such
can employ NFC to allow
organisers this represents a
next talk, all factors
as a trade show, received
event attendees easily
positive development, with
which could make
the most traffic. This
pay for items at events.
attendees arriving with
your event experience
will also prove useful for
Coming more into the
even more smart devices
that much smoother
investors and sponsors,
mainstream in 2014, NFC
to which organisers can
and more pleasant
who can gain greater
should become more
push relevant information
for attendees and
insight into their target
commonplace over the
or collect (consensual) user
exhibitors alike.
audience.
next few years.
data.
The almighty app Nowadays, it seems that there’s an app for almost everything – from daily reminders to drink more water to tracking sleep patterns and creating documents on your mobile device. Event organisers too can take advantage of the massive upsurge in creativity app makers have experienced over the past months and years – apps like Bizzabo, MobilePlanner, DoubleDutch and many, many more all offer something of use. With the top developers all well-funded and in demand, expect plenty in this arena for 2014.
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08/04/2014 09:23:37
1a Lower Pembroke St. Dublin 2 T. 01 676 4606
2 Crow St. Temple Bar, Dublin 2 T. 01 671 1248
5-7 Lord Edward St. Christchurch, Dublin 2 T. 01 475 1122
28 Parkgate St. Dublin 8 T. 01 671 9352
WWW.FXBUCKLEY.IE
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62
Venue Profile Conferencing 2014
Award Winners 2013 was a very successful year for the Croke Park team who won many awards including Best In-house Events Team and Best Purpose Designed Event Venue at the Event Industry Awards; the Green Tourism & Leisure award and the British Institute of Facilitates Management Ireland Region award for FM Project of the Year for our Sustainability Initiative. Croke Park was also OHSAS 18001 certified, the globally recognised standard for best practice in occupational health and safety, the first stadium in Europe to receive this accreditation. The venue offers an inspirational backdrop for any event so whether it is information sharing, product selling or celebrating, we have the business and social destination to suit. Our award winning team of event specialists can help plan an event that will interest, attract and engage any target audience. And, if the schedule allows for some time out or after-hours, there are a range of
croker class The conferencing facilities at Croke Park offer an unrivalled experience for your event.
Facilities
tours, attractions and entertainment to choose from. Sustainability is at the heart of how Croke Park is operated and all events benefit from outstanding sustainability credentials including recycling rates
Croke Park Conference Centre offers
over 93 per cent and reductions across
extensive facilities including eight
the board in utility consumption. Croke
conference suites and 87 meeting
Park also offers ‘next level’ hospitality
rooms and caters for groups of
for corporate and social occasions at
between two and 3,000 people. The
match fixtures and concerts throughout
nmatched in all Ireland, the
meeting room refurbishment in the
the summer including GAA League
Croke Park Conference Centre
Hogan meeting and syndicate rooms
and Championship games, Garth Brooks
had a very successful year
has proven very popular with event
and the Croke Park Classic American
in 2013 with a 15 per cent increase in
bookers and the rooms are ideal for
Football spectacle in August.
enquiries.The award-winning venue
training courses, board meetings,
offers complimentary car parking and
conference breakout rooms, seminars
at the venue and, with a dedicated sales
great value rates along with top quality
and team briefings. Located on level six,
team, can provide you with a proposal to
technical facilities, free WiFi, gourmet
all meeting rooms offer natural daylight
suit any event and budget. Plan now and
catering and four star accommodation at
and impressive views of the pitch and
secure a date with day delegate packages
The Croke Park Hotel. 2014 is looking
stadium.
from b40 per person.
U
bright with a range of high-profile
Half day meetings are very popular at
domestic and international events
Croke Park with clients using meeting
confirmed, a refurbishment programme
rooms for a morning seminar and
underway in the Cusack meeting rooms
filling the afternoon with team building
and a new catering team at the venue
activities such as a stadium or Etihad
with Aramark having taken over the
Skyline tour or games trials in the
catering contract in January.
stadium’s warm up areas.
062 Conf2014_Croke park_CF.indd 62
Sinead Heneghan is the Head of Sales
contact information
T: (01) 819 2300 E: info@crokepark.ie W: crokepark.ie/conference-centre.
08/04/2014 09:24:12
The Camden Court Hotel, one of Dublin’s premier conference venues, situated in the heart of the city centre.
The Camden Court Hotel offers the following services: n 246 en-suite bedrooms, tastefully designed n 12 state of the art Conference rooms n Conference rooms all with natural daylight
n n n n n
We facilitate up to 250 people theatre style Complimentary high speed Wi-Fi Luxurious and stylish ‘Iveagh’ Restaurant Complimentary car parking (subject to availability) Complimentary access to our Leisure Centre*
*access is free when overnight stay is booked.
www.camdencourthotel.com
063 Conf2014_BelfastConvention_CF.indd 63
For more information or to arrange a site visit, please contact our sales team on
+353 1 4759666 or email us at
sales@camdencourthotel.com
Relax, unwind, enjoy
09/04/2014 12:04:25
64
Unique Ideas Conferencing 2014
The Lighter Side A conference doesn’t necessarily have to follow conventional rules. Conferencing 2014 brings you inspiring and fun ways to keep your delegates intrigued and make your conference a talking point.
W
hile most conferences
the tone of the event or simply adds a
are founded on business
touch of glamour or fun. If you have a
objectives, how you choose
theme, you can be more elaborate with
to present these to your delegates
decorations, arrange an adventurous
doesn’t have to follow the usual means.
set-up, design creative menus or
Entertainers and unexpected activities
explore exciting entertainment
can be used as a platform to get
options.
delegates to interact, and send them home with something to talk about.
Start With A Bang
That’s Entertainment Entertainment will generate expectancy at an event. Use it in the
As the saying goes: first impressions
foyer when people arrive, at dinner
last. Make sure your first impression is
and during breaks when delegates
one to remember, and stage an effective
are milling around. You can create a
opening which will set the standard for
unique ambience by simply thinking
the rest of the event. Consider having
outside the box. Music doesn’t have
the event officially opened by a well-
to be limited to bands and solo
known face or a light-hearted opening
performers – buskers bring with them
that embraces the location, theme and
a laid-back atmosphere. Consider
the nature of your delegates.
holding some post-conference off-
Theme Building
site events, such as sporting events, sightseeing tours or perhaps a simple
You can lend your conference a more
few drinks, which can not only
light-hearted tone by designing a
enhance the conference experience but
theme that reflects the location, sets
delegates networking and friendships.
064 Conf2014_Lighter Side.indd 64
Interesting Venues
n Abbey theatre Add a touch of drama to your next event. Established in 1904, the theatre lies in the heart of Dublin and includes two meeting rooms and auditoria. n Dublin castle Sure to add some historic overtones, Dublin Castle is centrally located in the city, with a range of meeting rooms, theatres and board/ banquet rooms on a truly historic site. n guinness storehouse Famed the world-over, the Guinness Storehouse has a variety of architecturally unique event locations beneath its roof. n chester beatty library Described as the best museum in Ireland, the Chester Beatty Library houses the wonderful collections of Sir Alfred Chester Beatty. n royal hospital kilmainham Lavishly decorated, your event attendees will undoubtedly be impressed by this 17th century building, which now hosts events large and small.
08/04/2014 09:28:41
Venue Profile Conferencing 2014
65
Events at Thomond
Since the redeveloped Thomond Park reopened in October 2008, the iconic and legendary venue has received widespread acclaim and recognition as a conferencing and banqueting centre of the highest international standard.
T
meetings, gala dinners, exhibitions,
banquet style dining for up to 500
product launches, promotions and
guests and up to 800 theatre style for
staff training programs. Our catering
conference events. This unique suite
partner, Masterchefs Hospitality, is one
features glass façades that provide
stand dedicated to an array of hospitality
of Ireland’s leading corporate and event
natural daylight with panoramic views
catering companies, specialising in the
of the famous stadium and hallowed
management and delivery of quality and
pitch, the truly breathtaking views of the
customisable hospitality experiences.
wonderful grounds deliver an additional
he new Thomond Park stadium, renowned for its award-winning design and architecture,
incorporates an entire level in the east and conferencing facilities. The multifunctional design and layout can cater for all types of requirements - from business meetings and seminars to largescale conferences, receptions, and gala banquets. Five state-of-the-art event suites can be adapted and tailored to suit any type of corporate event or function with top class audio visual facilities. Thomond Park Stadium has all the facilities to host corporate social events,
The Conferencing & Hospitality team
and unique appeal for any event.
are dedicated to the management and delivery of every event from start to finish, and offer an exceptional level of service to ensure that each event is an unrivalled success in this most unique sporting and cultural location. The
contact information
T: 061 421100 E: events@thomondpark.ie W: www.thomondpark.ie
spacious Thomond Suite can facilitate
WHEN COMMUNICATION IS EVERYTHING
CONFERENCES l SEMINARS l CORPORATE EVENTS
TO BOOK YOUR EVENT Call: 061 421100 Email: events@thomondpark.ie Visit: www.thomondpark.ie
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11/04/2014 18:03:34
11/04/2014 18:07:12
66
Venue Profile Conferencing 2014
BESPOKE SOLUTIONS AT VINEHALL A specialist conference, exhibition and event production company, Vinehall prides itself on pouring passion and creativity into each of their services.
F
ounded in 1988, Vinehall
do and provide outstanding levels of
number of events for clients including
Displays are a specialist
customer service, from start to finish.
EIQA, Supervalu, Coca-Cola, Bank of
conference, exhibition and
Our project management team will
Ireland as well as the Websummit 2013.
event production company. Producing
work closely with you on all phases of
conference backdrops, exhibition
the project, ensuring efficient planning,
Get in Touch
stands, staging and event services – like
regular reports on progress, dealing
The company prides itself on being
pipe and drape – for all sizes of events
with any issues arising, as well as
extremely easy to the contact and are
and for all budgets, they also provide
advising you from the initial design
always reachable on their office number
an event branding service through their
through to installation.”
or mobile numbers, while queries from
range of in-house large format printers.
Family Affair
Vinehall Displays have a dedicated
the contact form on their website are
team of conference and event
monitored and answered on a regular
professionals who are devoted to
basis.
“We are a family-run business since 1988
designing powerful experiences
and with 25 years’ experience, we pride
through exceptional design, great
ourselves on meeting and exceeding
storytelling and innovative engagement
customers requirements for Quality,
tools that bring to life a client’s brand
Reliability and Value for Money,”
and deliver real results both for the
says Vinehall’s Gerard McElhinney.
client and its audiences. Vinehall has
“At Vinehall displays we love what we
created conference backdrops for a
CONTACT INFORMATION To read the full story on what Vinehall loves to do, see examples of their work or get a quotation, visit www.vinehall.ie
Vinehall Displays Conference, Exhibition and Events Services
Giving you the Solutions for Events, Exhibitions and Conferences.
www.vinehall.ie
Founded in 1988, Vinehall Displays are a Specialist Conference, Exhibition and Event Production Company. Vinehall are a family run business which maintain an ongoing commitment to providing top quality service while keeping a close eye on emerging technologies and design to offer the very best to all our clients.
Follow us:
Phone: +353 (0)1 835 9674 • +353 (0) 87 927 1358 • Email: gerry@vinehall.ie Wotton House, The Ward, Co, Dublin
066 Conf2014_Vinehall_CF.indd 66
11/04/2014 17:51:20
Congregation Conferencing 2014
67
Congregation The more unusual location of Cong, Co Mayo played host to a conference with a twist last summer. Conor Forrest spoke with freelance communications consultant and founder, Eoin Kennedy, to discover more.
Attendees at Congregation 2014.
W
hile certain venues across
than I ever absorbed by attending a
Ireland’s capital may
conference, and at a deeper level. This is
be considered as more
the inspiration behind Congregation – to
conventional locations for conferences
create an event where people can really
on various topics, November 30th 2013
learn from each other and not in an
saw the small but beautiful village of
accidental way,” he continues.
Cong, Co Mayo transformed into the destination for an inaugural and unusual
Conferencing with a twist
social media conference.
Social media conferences are nothing
‘Congregation’ is the brainchild of
new. The format which Kennedy’s
Eoin Kennedy, an ex-teacher with 18 years experience in public relations,
Congregation has taken, however, is Eoin Kennedy.
who spent the last two years as a start-up
his own words, Kennedy describes it as
entrepreneur. Kennedy also manages to find time to lecture on the subject
what sets it apart from its brethren. In an ‘unconference’ event, a forum for
“I have a problem with the idea
peer-to-peer sharing and connecting.
of social media for The Irish Times and
that the only person with insight is the
For example – no tickets were sold to
the Digital Marketing Institute. Over
one with the microphone and I am
the event, and attendees had to earn
the years, Kennedy has delivered many
frequently taken back by the nuggets
their entry through blogging their
social media courses and attended
that sometimes emerge from attendees,”
way in, papers published in advance
multiple conferences, and the one
explains Kennedy. “‘One to many’ is an
on the website, Congregation.ie It’s a
thing which has struck him the most
efficient way to industrialise the passing
well-thought-out take on things – the
is the static nature of such events – the
of learnings but I am not convinced that
blog papers acted as catalysts for talk
expert speaker at the top, delivering to a
it’s the most effective. In fact, being a
as attendees could read each other’s
somewhat mute audience.
speaker has forced me to learn more
work before hand, resulting in in-depth
067 Conf2014_Congregation.indd 67
09/04/2014 11:38:43
68
Congregation Conferencing 2014
Congregation in numbers
57 blog paper submissions
visits to congregation.ie
1
conversations which, according to Kennedy, went far beyond the original topics, and which otherwise may not have come about at all. “The Congregation concept came from personal experience from many years lecturing and presenting at conferences where one speaker presented to many,” Kennedy explains. “This is a highly efficient way of spreading information, but I wanted to explore the more effective way of creating a truly engaged audience, informed networking and more true exchanging of ideas, concepts and follow-on collaboration. By asking people to present their blog piece/ paper at Congregation.ie, they needed to reflect on different perspectives and also force themselves to synopsise and think about the simplest way to communicate complex concepts in a logical manner. By publishing the blog posts in advance we hoped to facilitate connections before the event, and also to allow people the time to distil the learnings.”
Congregation was promoted mostly through word of mouth and direct contact. Suitably, social media was the biggest traffic referrer while the traditional media also got in on the act. Attendees on the day came from a vast variety of backgrounds – education, business, marketing, technologists, teachers and event bankers, while a Google+ hangout was organised at one session with attendees from the US and Canada.
067 Conf2014_Congregation.indd 68
Google+ Hangout with USA and Canada
1,319
Trended on Twitter
Promotion
1
5,000 tweets using #cong13
The Huddle Over 45 people attended, presented and debated in an informal setting of small groups and social settings. On the day, every attendee at Congregation was also a speaker, presenting to ‘Huddles’ of less than ten people, which took place in social venues such as coffee shops, bars and exhibition spaces. The choice of a more informal setting for the ‘unconference’ was deliberate. “These are social spaces and one of the things
of ideas. “The fact that everyone was a speaker was refreshing in that everyone has earned their place, and this was respected by all attendees. Each huddle had a different composition of people so the networking was baked in and natural – you met new people at each hour long session and had a unique introductory calling card – the blog post. In addition, each session kicked off with a social media hack or tip to break the ice.”
Congregation wanted to achieve
The Future
was a relaxed environment where
A success in its inaugural year,
conversation, engagement and sharing
Kennedy has hopes that Cong14 will
was as natural as possible,” says
follow up later on this year. “There
Kennedy. The main topic of discussion
have been many calls for this to become
was social media, from a variety of
an annual event under #cong13 and
interests, opinions and backgrounds.
this was supported by some online
“There were many tangible outputs
dip stick research,” he explains.
in the form of published and
“This event was sponsored by MKC
visible content, clear indications
Communications and the Irish Internet
of connections being formed and
Association, so attendees’ entry fee
plenty of follow-on conversations on
was the blog post and attendance on
collaborative projects,” Kennedy adds.
the day. The next Congregation is
“A side objective of Congregation was
pencilled in for Autumn 2014 and is
to prove that a rural location could
expected to expand to 100 people.”
host a leading-edge conference by
Though earned, rather than paid-for
being creative about how it uses its
entry, remains key for Kennedy, he
available venues.”
realises that commercial sponsorship is
Each of the huddles was overseen
also important if this ‘unconference’ is
by an expert whose job it was to guide
to really gain traction. If that happens,
the conversation and, in so doing,
the benefits are there for anybody
ensure that self-promotion was kept
wishing to take part. “Congregation
to a minimum. Kennedy and those
is not all about work. We hope that by
participants found that this format
participating, you will forge new links,
worked quite well, and engaged all
connections and build friendships with
participants beyond the simple sharing
like-minded people,” he concludes.
08/04/2014 09:40:18
Venue Profile Conferencing 2014
69
A Relaxing Oasis
E
scape to the oasis of modern luxury in the southside of Dublin at The Beacon
Hotel, boasting plenty of edge, extravagance and glamour. Luxurious all-white 88 deluxe style bedrooms, the Crystal Bar - an award winning cocktail bar, authentic Thai restaurant’ My Thai’ and superb Beacon Penthouse are
The Beacon Boutique Hotel in Sandyford, where boutique hotel style and design blend with outstanding service to create a new concept in luxury travel.
home away from home and warm, friendly service is second to none.
Luxurious The Beacon Penthouse Suite is the ultimate lap of luxury. Tucked away on the 7th floor, this fabulous suite has its very own Philippe Starck free-standing bathtub placed on a raised platform in the bedroom itself. The Penthouse also has a separate living area complete with giant day bed packed with plump cushions for you to kick back and take a nap. The perfect way to relax after a hectic day of shopping at Dundrum Town Centre or simply to spoil yourself.
Location The Beacon is ideally located just off the M50 in Sandyford. This four star luxury South Dublin hotel is conveniently situated near Dundrum and Leopardstown. It is adjacent to the Beacon Hospital and Beacon Clinic, and just minutes from Ireland’s most prestigious shopping experience at Dundrum Town Centre. This luxury four star hotel in Dublin is certainly one of a kind and should not be missed!
069 Conf2014_Beacon_CF.indd 69
contact information
Ciaran Miley Meetings & Events Co-ordinator T: +353 (01) 643 7057 E: meetings@thebeacon.com W: www.thebeacon.com
08/04/2014 15:11:59
70
Events Conferencing 2014
Dublin Fringe Festival.
events galore Conferencing 2014 takes a look at some of the major events happening in Ireland this year.
Carton House Most Stylish Lady Competition. And, if horse racing isn’t your raison d’être, there will be plenty of entertainment on offer besides, including live music and children’s entertainment.
Galway Food Festival n Date: 17 April 2014 – 21 April 2014 n Location: Galway city, Co Galway n Further Information:
Fairyhouse Easter Festival
www.galwayfoodfestival.com
n Date: 20 April 2014 – 21 April 2014
The third annual Galway Food
n Location: Fairyhouse Racecourse, Ratoath, Co
Festival will be taking place in the
Meath n Further Information: www.fairyhouse.ie
070 Conf2014_Events.indd 70
be the Irish Grand National and the
city once again this year, cementing the city’s reputation as a good food destination. The programme of events
As always, the Fairyhouse Festival
includes food trails and talks, cooking
promises to be a fun-filled, exciting
demonstrations, craft beer and wine
weekend of racing, live music and
tastings, local produce markets and
family fun. A fantastic day out for all
other family-friendly events. The
the family, the festival begins on Easter
Festival is held throughout the city,
Sunday, the highlight of the day being
and is sure to draw a crowd - over
the Grade 1 Powers Cup. Continuing
50 restaurants, food outlets and food
on Easter Monday, the big draw will
producers took part in 2013.
08/04/2014 12:47:09
FORUM – CONFERENCING | MEETINGS | EVENTS • The Killeshin Hotel, Portlaoise, central location, at Exit 16 off M7. • All meeting rooms are styled in walnut and leather and enjoy natural daylight and air conditioning. • 11 dedicated Meeting Rooms for 10 - 250 delegates. • Free high speed wifi • free car parking • A ‘green’ hospitailty venue
“Dedicated to business…committed to you”
events@thekilleshin.com • Tel: 057 863 1200 • www.thekilleshin.com
Dublin Road | Portlaoise | Co. Laois | Ireland
071 Conf2014_Kileshin/RiverLee.indd 9
11/04/2014 14:31:39
72
Events Conferencing 2014
Wicklow Gardens Festival
the Battle of Clontarf on 23 April 1014,
to promote and sell their products,
n Date: April 2014 – September 2014
when the forces of the then High King
alongside demonstrations by local
of Ireland, Brian Boru, clashed and
chefs. At once affordable, fun and
routed those of the King of Leinster,
informative to boot, there is something
Mael Morda. That day also saw the
for everyone here, and caters to all
death of Brian, who was killed when
tastes and budgets. A slew of events will
(Various dates in-between) n Location: Various locations in and around Wicklow n Further Information:
fleeing Norsemen stumbled upon his
take place over the three days – large
Each summer, public and private
tent. Amidst several commemorations
indoor and outdoor farmers’ markets,
gardens throughout Co Wicklow (not
being held throughout Ireland, Trinity
cookery demonstrations from local
to mention a selection in neighbouring
College will be running a free major
and celebrity chefs, a gala dinner feast
Carlow, Dublin and Wexford) open
historical conference on the topic
prepared by a local expert chef, pig
their doors to the public. More than
between April 11 and 12. It promises
roasts, BBQs, children’s food events,
30 gardens take part in the festival
to be an interesting two days, with
a food camp, Burren walks and much
each year, which is always popular,
speakers covering the general history of
more. The Festival is part of the
with each garden offering something
the time, Brian Boru and his Kingship,
international Slow Food movement,
different and unique. Take a stroll
the Battle itself and the legacy of both
which encourages people around the
around Avondale House in Rathdrum,
Brian and Clontarf.
globe to take the time to enjoy their
www.wicklowgardens.com
food.
enjoy the myriad of sights and views at Powerscourt House and Gardens
Burren Slow Food Festival
or absorb the beauty on display at the
n Date: 23 May 2014 – 25 May 2014
Special Olympics Ireland Games 2014
National Garden Exhibition Centre.
n Location:
n Date: 12 June 2014 – 14 June 2014
n Further Information:
n Location: Limerick city
Battle of Clontarf Conference
www.slowfoodclare.com
n Further Information:
n Date: 11 April 2014 – 12 April 2014
A three-day event which showcases
n Location: Edmund Burke Theatre,
the best of food in Co Clare, the
The city of Limerick has been chosen
Burren Slow Food Festival is about
as the destination for Special Olympics
n Further Information: www.tcd.ie
celebrating food, highlighting the best
Ireland’s 2014 Games. Accompanied
2014 sees the 1,000 year anniversary of
of local producers and helping them
by coaches, official delegates and family
Trinity College Dublin
www.specialolympics.ie
Dubai Duty Free.
070 Conf2014_Events.indd 72
08/04/2014 12:47:25
Step into a warm family friendly 3*hotel in Dublin, offering 270 newly refurbished bedrooms ranging from double to large family rooms to suit all your needs, 8 conference rooms and 40 boardrooms with our ballroom catering for 750 delegates, theatre style. Enjoy a meal in Sorrel’s Restaurant and enjoy the ambiance in our Bar. All guests have complimentary car parking and use of our Leisure Centre which has a fully equipped gymnasium, indoor heated swimming pool & separate kids pool. In addition, complimentary Wi-Fi & broadband is provided for all of our guests. We are ideally located in Newlands Cross, just off the N7 Dublin to Cork/ Limerick motorway (kingswood exit), a 10 minute drive from N4 Sligo/ Galway motorway, 20kms from Dublin International Airport and 15kms into Dublin City Centre. Tel: 01 4593 406 • Email: sales@greenislehotel.com Web: www.greenislehotel.com
073 Conf2014_Slieve Russell/Greenisle.indd 63
11/04/2014 18:09:21
74
Events Conferencing 2014
Vinegar Hill Battle Re-enactment.
and friends, 1,500 Special Olympics
including a food paddock, music
Vinegar Hill Battle Re-enactment
athletes from across the country will
village, golf classic and derby ball.
n Date: 01 August 2014 – 03 August 2014
descend on Limerick city this June,
n Location: Enniscorthy, Co Wexford
competing in 14 sports throughout the
Sligo Stage Rally
n Further Information: www.vinegarhill.ie
Games, including athletics, football,
n Date: 13 July 2014
2014 will be a year for historical
golf, bowling and table tennis.
n Location: Starting at Sligo Park Hotel, Sligo
remembrance, including World War
n Further Information:
I and the Battle of Clontarf. Down in
Dubai Duty Free
www.connachtmotorclub.com
Wexford, it’s an annual tradition to re-
n Date: 27 June 2014 – 29 June 2014
A popular annual event run by
enact the Battle of Vinegar Hill, one of
n Location: Curragh Racecourse, Co Kildare
Connacht Motor Club, the Sligo
the most significant battles during the
n Further Information: www.curragh.ie
Stages Rally returns to the back roads
1798 Rebellion in which 20,000 rebels
The Dubai Duty Free Irish Derby
once more in 2014, on Sunday 13
faced off against 10,000 of the Crown’s
Festival begins June 27, and is sure
July. Always a popular, fun-filled and
forces. A fun-filled day for young and
to be a weekend full of great fun,
exciting day out, the Rally is one round
old, it attracts professional re-enactors
entertainment and, of course, horse
of the Border Rally Championship.
from Ireland, England, Scotland and
racing! With eight races overall, the
A range of cars will race on closed
Northern Ireland, and past events have
total prize money is e1.25 million. The
public sections of the road, from WRC
always been a great success as a result.
centrepiece of the event is undoubtedly
vehicles to modified clubman cars.
If gun battles, pike charges and cannon
the Dubai Duty Free Irish Derby race,
The starting point is at the Sligo Park
fire are your thing, you’re in for a treat.
though there’s plenty more on the
Hotel in Sligo town, and will run from
Just watch your head.
programme to keep you occupied,
9.30am to 5.30pm.
070 Conf2014_Events.indd 74
08/04/2014 12:47:38
Venue Profile Conferencing 2014
75
CENTRE OF EXCELLENCE Set in the heart of Ireland in the vibrant town of Tullamore, the Tullamore Court Hotel has earned an unrivalled reputation for hosting annual conferences and meetings.
T
he prime location and ease of
state of the art audio-visual equipment
delegates can relax and unwind using the
accessibility of the Tullamore
with Wi-Fi throughout. The hotel’s
award-winning leisure facilities on offer
Court Hotel makes the hotel an
completely self-contained conference
in the hotel. This spacious centre boasts
ideal location and is just over one hour
centre has been expertly designed and
a beautiful 20 metre swimming pool with
from Dublin and Galway.
is home to nine conference suites. The
Jacuzzi, water volcano, back massage
Along with the central location,
highlight of the conference centre is
seats and water curtain. Other facilities
the hotel’s experienced conference
the executive boardroom known as the
include a sauna, steamroom and fully
management team are on hand from
Sterling Boardroom. Accommodating 21
equipped fitness suite with an aerobics
the initial enquiry stage right through
delegates on a round table set up, clients
room. A recent addition to the hotel is
to the conference day itself. Conference
will be impressed by its superior finish
Elma’s Beauty Salon, which is perfect for
Manager Eugene Martin has been with
and privacy.
all your relaxation and pampering needs.
the hotel since its opening in 1997 and
Organising a corporate/gala evening
The excellent facilities and service
will liaise with organisers throughout the
or banquet is also made simple as
offered by the Tullamore Court Hotel,
day to ensure total success.
professional team of staff will cater for
along with the central location, combine
all your needs and help you organise
to make the Tullamore Court Hotel the
the DE Williams Suite, can cater for up
every detail from team building activities
perfect venue for your next conference.
to 750 people in a theatre set up. The
through to themed events. Private dining
For further information contact:
suite offers a huge degree of flexibility
for groups of 20 to 550 can be catered for
Tel: (057) 934 6666
depending on requirements and has
depending upon requirements.
Email: sales@tullamorecourthotel.ie
The hotel’s principal conference suite,
recently been redecorated and offers
After an exhausting day of business,
Web: www.tullamorecourthotel.ie
The Tullamore Court Hotel The Centre of Excellence
Located just over 1 hour from Dublin & Galway Five minutes from the M6 and serviced by train 14 dedicated Meeting Rooms Main conference capacity of 750 delegates Executive Boardroom 103 guest rooms including 33 Executive Rooms and Suites On site complimentary car parking Complimentary WiFi
Tullamore, Co Offaly Tel: 057 9346666 Email: sales@tullamorecourthotel.ie www.tullamorecourthotel.ie
075 Conf2014_Tullamore_CF.indd 75
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76
Events Conferencing 2014
Dublin Horse Show.
National Steam Rally
Show is one of Ireland’s best-
in theatre, comedy, dance and
n Date: 03 August 2014 – 04 August 2014
loved events, and also one which
spectacle, visitors are guaranteed
n Location: Stradbally, Co Laois
consistently attracts big attendance.
to see some of the most original,
n Further Information: www.irishsteam.ie
There’s something for everyone,
daring and exciting work the arts
The National Steam Rally is held each
featuring live music, good food,
world has to offer.
August in Stradbally, Co Laois, though
fashion, shopping, entertainment and
2014 will be something of a special
art, while a Kids’ Zone means that
Clarenbridge Oyster Festival
year for the organisers, as the event
even the little ones won’t be bored.
n Date: 13 September 2014 – 15 September
celebrates its 50th anniversary. 20,000
And, of course, the horse lover is truly
visitors flock to the small town to watch
in for a treat: last year’s event saw
n Location: Clarenbridge, Co Galway
steam engines and numerous other
1,500 horses compete across a range
n Further Information:
vehicles parade through the town.
of challenging tests and competitions.
There’ll be plenty more to look forward
2014
www.clarenbridge.com
Held in September every year since
to also; trade stands selling a variety
Dublin Fringe Festival
1954, the Clarenbridge Oyster
of products; cookery demonstrations;
n Date: 6 September 2014 – 21 September 2014
Festival celebrates the world-famous
children’s steam train rides through
n Location: A variety of venues across Dublin
Clarenbridge oysters, the taste
Cosby Estate Woodlands and plenty
n Further Information:
of which, the people maintain, is
more.
www.fringefest.com
unrivalled across the globe. There
A festival which stretches across
aren’t many better ways to spend
Dublin Horse Show
Dublin city, the Dublin Fringe Festival
a few days than in the beautiful
n Date: 06 August 2014 – 10 August 2014
is a multi-disciplinary event, which
region in which Clarenbridge
n Location: RDS, Ballsbridge, Dublin
focuses on new and innovative
is found. Visitors to the festival
n Further Information:
approaches to art. Filling the city
can take part in a celebration of
streets with performers from across
entertainment, music, dancing and,
the globe demonstrating their skills
of course, the Clarenbridge oysters.
www.dublinhorseshow.com
The Discover Ireland Dublin Horse
070 Conf2014_Events.indd 76
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Venue Profile Conferencing 2014
77
A First Class Experience
Hidden by majestic sycamore trees and private gardens, Finnstown Country House Hotel offers something truly unique. Combining old-world glamour with modern convenience, this exquisite property proudly welcomes both leisure and corporate guests with the same ‘céad míle fáilte.’
L
ocated 20 minutes from Dublin City and International Airport, Finnstown Country House Hotel
provides a luxury escape with superb accessibility. Just five minutes from the N4 Dual Carriageway and ten minutes from the M50 motorway, the hotel provides excellent access to the country’s vibrant capital, along with creating a gateway to explore the greater island of Ireland. Since opening its doors over 30 years ago, Finnstown has had the privilige of hosting a number of high profile conferences and events, exuding a refined, relaxed charm that instantly puts you at ease. From the moment you turn onto the sweeping driveway and are greeted by the resident peacocks, you are immediately met with the wonderful history of this 45-
077 Conf2014_Finnstown_CF.indd 77
acre property dating back to the 13th
fully equipped with high spec facilities
century.
and are fully air conditioned with
Boasting 105 luxurious guest rooms,
plenty of natural daylight.
offering complimentary Wi-Fi and
When it comes to menu planning
the quality you would expect from
at Finnstown, the excellent team of
a hotel of this calibre, Finnstown
award-winning chefs always think
provides an ideal venue for your next
outside the box to create a fantastic
conference or break away. Enhanced
range of alternative options. The
by extensive facilities including; a
dedicated conference and event team
full gym, swimming pool and tennis
are always on-hand to advise and guide
courts, Finnstown is the perfect home
you from your initial visit to the closing
away from home. For your next
address.
meeting or event, the character of
Experience the proud tradition for
the hotel’s eleven versatile conference
yourself with a visit to this hidden
and banqueting suites - each unique
Dublin gem.
and in keeping with the hotel’s rich past - allows you to create an event tailored to your individual needs. The main ballroom, The Library Suite, caters for 300 delegates theatre-style and banqueting for 290 guests. As you
contact information T: 01 601 0700 E: info@finnstown-hotel.ie W: www.finnstown-hotel.ie
would expect, all meeting rooms come
09/04/2014 11:49:04
78
Venue Profile Conferencing 2014
P
acino’s is still standing tall at the foot of Grafton Street, and has done for over 20 years now. In
1993, the 18th Precinct had closed and it wasn’t until Frank Bergin took the lease on the premises on Suffolk Street that Pacino’s first opened its doors. Nearly every Dubliner and, to a lesser extent, a country visitor has popped into Pacino’s over the years. For Michael Martin, it was the taste of his childhood but now in 2014, it was the acclaimed food writer Paulo Tuillo who coined the phrase, as Pacino’s has authenticated itself with the introduction of Milanese Chef Patron and executive manager Luca Mazza. Luca is a true example of Italian food culture and since childhood has worked with food. Starting as an assistant baker in his uncle’s bakery at eight years old, Luca proceeded to work in various restaurant around Italy before moving to Amsterdam where he was appointed King of Italian Cuisine by acclaimed food critic Johannes van Dam, and on to London where OK Magazine appraised him for his culinary abilities. Now in Pacino’s of Suffolk St Dublin, Luca has been voted best Italian chef in Ireland for two years running by Paulo Tuillo, a
Pacino’s A Taste of My Childhood Pacino’s on Suffolk Street boasts a rich history and through continued quality, has cemented itself as one of Dublin’s premier eating establishments.
fellow Italian. The food is as authentic as you will get outside of Italy and accessible
world vibe – stylish brickwork, wooden
featuring the best music in the form of
to all. When not appearing on TV, Luca
and mosaic flooring, and soft lighting
Irish and international DJs, allowing
will be found cooking and preparing
combine to create a rustic atmosphere
customers to discover a full night’s
menus in the kitchen at Pacino’s.
complemented by the finest authentic
activity, whether it be a meal served till
Italian food, and with a great front of
11pm or a drink with top class music
house team providing a fantastic wine
played till 2.30am at weekends, or both.
Rustic Vibe The menu is populated with a selection of antipasti to start, followed by a choice
and cocktail list. Though Pacino’s was born as a
Now 20 years on, Pacino’s offers more than just a great meal but has a great
of meat, fish, pasta, or pizza for main.
restaurant in the early nineties, it wasn’t
offering throughout. So hopefully with
The pizzas are particularly good and
until Michael Martin took over the
the passage of another 20 years it will be
the pasta is made fresh. Pacino’s is
business in 2006 that it developed and
the taste of someone else’s childhood.
also a member of Good Food Ireland
grew into a bar and venue. As a venue
which means most of their menu is
Pacino’s has hosted numerous exclusive
sourced using only the best Irish artisan
high profile corporate events, film wrap
producers mixed with the best Italian
parties and launches offering private
Ingredients imported directly from Italy.
dining whether it’s a sit down meal or
With a capacity of 140 seats following a
a Cicchetti reception. In January 2014
renovation in 2007, Pacino’s offers an old
078 Conf2014_Pacino_CF.indd 78
contact information T: 01 677 5651 W: www.pacinos.ie E: info@pacinos.ie
Pacino’s launched Pacino’s @ Night
08/04/2014 09:53:35
RESTAURANT, RESTA T URANT, TA TT, BAR & VENUE
Looking for Great Food, Great Drinks, Great Entertainment? Pacino’s of Suffolk St has been in business for nearly 20 years providing the highest quality authentic Italian cuisine Dublin has to offer. The kitchen is spearheaded by the very talented Luca Mazza (TV3). Pay a visit on Friday or Saturday and enjoy the best in Irish and International music artists. Across from the Molly Malone statue and next to Grafton St Pacino’s caters for private dining, be it a drinks reception or a seated dinner.
We look forward to welcoming you!
VISIT US AT WWW.PACINOS.IE İ CALL US ON 01 6775651 İ EMAIL US AT INFOPACINOS.IE
Secretly tucked away in Dublin city centre, there is a cocktail bar known for the quality and artistry of its cocktails that truly evoke the mood of a 1920s speakeasy — The Blind Pig. Named after the police who turned a blind eye to the liquor rooms of the 1920s prohibition era, The Blind Pig launched as a pop-up Speakeasy bar that featured monthly, in secret, at a well-known Dublin venue. Since then, The Blind Pig has developed an affectionate fanbase in Ireland and abroad.
Experience the forgotten thrill of secret passwords, false storefronts and just a touch of lawlessness. Booking is essential. Please mail reservations@theblindpig.ie requesting to see the Blind Pig at a particular time. You will then receive instructions on the location, which is less than a 2-minutes walk from Grafton St, Dublin 2. For more information go to www.theblindpig.ie
FOR ALL ENQUIRIES INCLUDING COCKTAIL CLASSES PLEASE MAIL RESERVATIONS@THEBLINDPIG.IE İ PHONE: 085 874 7901
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Are You Looking For A Unique Flexible Venue?
Please call the RDS Sales Team Today on + 353 (0) 1 668 0866 or email sales@rds.ie www.rds.ie
event design & production for corporate events
SET DESIGN STAGING PIPE&DRAPE EVENT RENTAL FURNITURE Follow us on Facebook! Think Design Think Design. G3 Ballymount Drive, Walkinstown. Dublin 12. 014569100
080 Conf2014_RDS/THINK.indd 8
hi@thinkdesign.ie
www.thinkdesign.ie
10/04/2014 12:37:31
Venue Directory Conferencing 2014
Aviva Stadium
81
Ballsbridge Hotel
Venue Directory Find the perfect venue in no time by scanning through our comprehensive guide to the best of conferencing and corporate hospitality in Ireland.
Address: Tel: Fax: Email: Web: Star Rating: Location: (proximity to transport links, etc.) No. of bedrooms: Dining facilities:
Bar & entertainment facilities: Leisure centre facilities:
Golf course: (on-site or nearby) Activities & local attractions:
Conferencing Conferencing Capacity: Dedicated conference centre: Conference co-ordinator: co-ordinator contact details: Audio-visual Equipment Sound system: Screen: Projector: Video Equipment: OTHER: Technical Equipment Laptop connection to LCD: Teleconferencing: VIDEO-CONFERENCING: Internet/Broadband access: Remote conferencing: Other: Support Services Technician: Secretarial Support: Interpreter: DiSABILITY ACCESS:
081 Conf.2014_Directory final.indd 81
Ballsbridge, Dublin 4
Pembroke Road, Ballsbridge, Dublin 4
+353 (0) 1 238 2388 +353 (0) 1 238 2333 sales@avivastadiumevents.ie
+353 (0) 1 238 2700 +353 (0) 1 667 4381 events@ballsbridgehotel.com
www.avivastadiumevents.ie
www.ballsbridgehotel.com
UEFA Elite Stadium Aviva Stadium is in the heart of Dublin, 20 minutes from Dublin Airport, adjacent to Lansdowne Road DART station Located beside a variety of hotels and accommodation options in Ballsbridge Up to 1,100 delegates
4HHHH 20 minutes from Dublin Airport, three minutes walk from DART rail link, ten mintues walk to city centre and IFSC 392
Full bar license and entertainment facilities
Raglan’s Restaurant with simple good food, friendly staff and comfortable surroundings The Dubliner Pub with daily menu and live music at the weekends
N/A
No leisure centre on-site but health centre is 5 minutes walk from the hotel
In close proximity
Elm Park Golf Club nearby
Tour of Aviva Stadium – follow in the footsteps of your heroes and take a look behind the scenes
Guinness Storehouse, Jameson Distillery, Temple Bar, Trinity College, Grafton Street, Dublin Castle, hiking, fishing
900 theatre style, 1100 dining 3 Julie O' Sullivan, +353 (0) 1 238 2365 julie.osullivan@avivastadiumevents.ie
1,000 3 Philip Downes pdownes@ballsbridgehotel.com
3 3 (space specific) 3 (space specific) 3
On request On request On request On request
3 3 3 3 3
On request On request On request 3 On request
On request 3 On request 3
On request On request On request 3
11/04/2014 17:05:32
82
Venue Directory Conferencing 2014
The Beacon Hotel
BEST WESTERN PLUS Academy Plaza Hotel
Belfast Waterfront Conference & Exhibition Centre
Venue Directory Address:
Beacon Court, Sandyford Business Region, Dublin 18 +353 1 291 5000 +353 1 291 5005 meetings@thebeacon.com
2 Lanyon Place, Belfast, BT1 3WH, Northern Ireland +44 (0) 28 9033 4400 +44 (0) 28 9024 9842 conference@waterfront.co.uk
10-14 Findlater Place, off Upper O’Connell Street, Dublin +353 (0) 1 878 0666 +353 (0) 1 878 0600 stay@academyplazahotel.ie
www.thebeacon.com
www.waterfront.co.uk
www.academyplazahotel.ie
4HHHH Just off M50 motorway, serviced by Luas to Dublin city centre and near Dundrum Town Centre and Leopardstown 88
N/A Belfast city centre location, adjacent to Central Railway Station, five minutes from George Best Belfast City Airport N/A
3HHH DART eight minute stroll to Connolly and Tara St. Stations. 6 minute walk from hotel to Dublin’s central bus station 304
Dining facilities:
My Thai Restaurant with an open kitchen serving Asian dishes with a twist
Arc Brasserie restaurant seating 150, banqueting facilities also available
Two restaurants, Sir Harry’s Grill Bar and Bristo & Oscar’s Restaurant
Bar & entertainment facilities:
The Crystal Bar- described as “A Slice of Miami in Dublin Southside.” Ideal spot to try speciality cocktails & sample craft beer Gym studio – complimentary water & towels are provided
Enjoy a number of bar areas with stunning views and an ongoing entertainment programme N/A
Bar with backround music
Within close proximity to local Dublin golf courses
There are several golf courses within a 10 minute drive
Close to Dundrum Town Centre prestigious shoppping area and the famous Leopardstown Racecourse
Belfast City Hall, The Ulster Hall, city centre shopping, dining and entertainment
Elmgreen Golf Course, Dunsink Lane, Castleknock, Dublin 15 (01) 820 0797 Approx 6.8km from the hotel Abbey Theatre, Bord Gais Energy Theatre, Áras An Uactharáin, Dublin Castle, Croke Park, Zoo, Guinness Store House
40 On request Leila Ryan meetings@thebeacon.com
2,223 3 Jennifer Patterson, +44 (0) 28 9033 4405 jennifer.patterson@waterfront.co.uk
120 3 Sinéad Byrne, +353 1 817 4109 sbyrne@academyplazahotel.ie
Audiovisual Equipment Sound system: Screen: Projector: Video Equipment: Other:
On request On request On request On request
3 On request On request On request Full range of equipment on request
3 3 3 7
Technical Equipment Laptop connection to LCD: Teleconferencing: Video conferencing: Internet/Broadband access: Remote conferencing: Other:
On request On request On request 3 On request
On request On request On request On request On request Lighting design on request
3 3 7 3 7
On request On request On request 3
3 On request On request 3
3 3 7 3
Tel: Fax: Email: Web: Star Rating: Location: (proximity to transport links, etc) No. of bedrooms:
Leisure centre facilities:
Golf course: (on-site or nearby) Activities & local attractions:
Conferencing Conferencing Capacity: Dedicated conference centre: Conference co-ordinator: co-ordinator contact details:
Support Services Technician: Secretarial Support: Interpreter: Disability access:
081 Conf.2014_Directory final.indd 82
Gym & beauty room, both located on lower ground floor
11/04/2014 17:05:48
Venue Directory Conferencing 2014
Breaffy House Resort
Carlton Hotel Dublin Airport
Camden Court Hotel
83
Castleknock Hotel & Country Club
Breaffy, Castlebar, Co. Mayo
Camden Street, Dublin 2
Old Airport Road, Cloughran, Co. Dublin
+353 (0) 94 902 2033 +353 (0) 94 22 276 info@breaffyhouseresort.ie
+353 (0) 1 475 9666 +353 (0) 1 475 9677 sales@camdencourthotel.ie
+353 (0) 1 866 7500 +353 (0) 1 862 3114 meetings@carlton.ie
Porterstown Road, Castleknock, Dublin 15 +353 (0) 1 640 6300 +353 (0) 1 640 6384 events@chcc.ie
www.breaffyhouseresort.com
www.camdencourthotel.com
www.carlton.ie
www.castleknockhotel.com
3HHH 5 minute drive from the town of Castlebar. Regular train & bus services. Ireland West Airport 20 minute drive 260
3HHH Located next to ‘Harcourt Street’ Luas green line. Aircoach services and 16A bus to Dublin Airport 246
4HHHH 1 km from Dublin Airport, complimentary Shuttle Bus service
Mulberry Restaurant - Breaffy House Hotel & Legends, Restaurant Breaffy Woods Hotel - Open daily Mulberry Bar, Breaffy House Hotel & Woods Bar, Breaffy Woods Hotel
The popular ‘Iveagh’ Restaurant and elegant C Central Bar
Kitty Hawks Bistro or private dining rooms available on request
Full extensive bar and delicious bar menu. Live Entertainment every Friday Night Gymnasium, 16 metre swimming pool, sauna, steam room and jacuzzi with Beauty Clinic salon Close proximity to main Dublin golf courses
Kitty Hawks Bar & Bistro located on the ground floor
4HHHH AA Irish Hotel of the Year 2014, located 15 minutes from Dublin city, 25 minutes from Airport, & with links to train stations 138 including 20 executive rooms and four suites Two restaurants, The Brasserie and the AA Rosette award-winning Park Restaurant Two public bars, the open plan Fionn Uisce bar and the Lime Tree cocktail bar
Gymnasium
Full leisure centre, gym and day spa
N/A
Short walk to St Stephens Green, Dublin’s premier shopping district and Trinity College
Corporate Entertainment arranged on request
Castleknock Golf Club on-site. Luttrellstown and Westmanstown Golf Clubs a 5 minute drive from the hotel The Phoenix Park, Dublin Zoo, Guinness Storehouse, National Aquatic Centre, Kilmainham Gaol and Dublin city centre
2,500 3 Sabina Cox, +353 (0) 94 904 4107 sabina.cox@breaffyhouseresort.ie
Maximum 250 persons in Theatre Style 3 Sandra Egan, +353 (0) 1 428 3930 segan@camdencourthotel.ie
3 3 Dáire Dillon, +353 (0) 1 866 7500 meetings@carlton.ie
500 15 conference and meeting rooms Gael Cooke Allen events@chcc.ie
3 3 3 7 Flipchart, Markers, Pens, Paper
3 3 3 On request State of the art equipment
3 3 3 7
3 3 3 3
7 7 7 3 7
3 On request On request 3 On request
3 3 7 3 7 Wi-Fi
3 3 3 3 7
3 Extra charge - Pre booking essential 3 Extra charge - Pre booking essential 7 3
On request 3 On request – additional cost applies 3
3 On request 7 3 On request 3
3 3 7 3
Breaffy Spa established since 2001, Breaffy Leisure Club, one of the most popular in Castlebar region Selection of Links and parkland golf courses within 20 mile radius of Resort, Westport, Claremorris, Castlebar From Lough Corrib to Killala Bay, Mayo boasts attractions such as stunning scenery, fishing, golf courses & beaches
081 Conf.2014_Directory final.indd 83
100
11/04/2014 17:06:09
84
Venue Directory Conferencing 2014
Castlemartyr Resort
Cavan Crystal Hotel
CityNorth Hotel
Venue Directory Address: Tel: Fax: Email: Web: Star Rating: Location: (proximity to transport links, etc) No. of bedrooms: Dining facilities:
Bar & entertainment facilities: Leisure centre facilities:
Golf course: (on-site or nearby) Activities & local attractions:
Conferencing Conferencing Capacity: Dedicated conference centre: Conference co-ordinator: co-ordinator contact details: Audiovisual Equipment Sound system: Screen: Projector: Video Equipment: Other: Technical Equipment Laptop connection to LCD: Teleconferencing: Video conferencing: Internet/Broadband access: Remote conferencing: Other: Support Services Technician: Secretarial Support: Interpreter: Disability access:
081 Conf.2014_Directory final.indd 84
Castlemartyr, Co. Cork
Dublin Road, Cavan, Co. Cavan
Gormanstown, Co. Meath
+353 21 421 9000 +353 21 421 9059 info@castlemartyrresort.ie
+353 (0) 49 436 0600 +353 (0) 49 436 0699 sales@cavancrystalhotel.com
+353 (0) 1 690 6666 +353 (0) 1 690 6627 info@citynorthhotel.com
www.castlemartyrresort.ie
www.cavancrystalhotel.com
www.citynorthhotel.com
5HHHHH 30 minutes from Cork City, 10 minutes from Midleton
4HHHH On outskirts of Cavan town and easily reached by the M3. 60 minute drive from Dublin and 90 minutes from Belfast 85
4HHHH Located on the M1, Dublin to Belfast route (Exit 7) 15 minutes from Dublin Airport 125 Rooms
Fine Dining – Bell Tower, Casual Italian Franchini’s, All day dining Knights Bar & Golf Club House and Room Service Bar – Knights Bar weekend entertainment
Dining options include our awardwinning Opus One Restaurant and beautiful Atrium Bar Live entertainment every Saturday night in the Atrium Bar
Full Leisure Centre including pool, sauna, steam room and jacuzzi. Fully equipped gym 18 hole inland links golf course on site
Gymnasium, swimming pool, sauna, steam room & jacuzzi with Utopia, Health and Beauty Clinic, Evita’s Hair Salon Cavan Golf Course is less than 10 minutes drive from the hotel
Bar food from 12pm-9.30pm. Daily Carvery. Table d’hóte menu in our Mornington restaurant Full extensive bar and bar menu. Entertainment on selected dates throughout the year On-site fitness suite, treatment room, acupuncture clinic.
Pony & Trap ride on- site, Walk Earl and Countess on Resort dogs, play games on the lawn
Cavan Golf Club, Equestrian Centre, Headfort’s Championship Golf Course, ODD adventure centre and kayaking nearby
CityNorth guests can enjoy preferential rates at a variety of golf course in the area (15-40 mins from the hotel) Bru na Boinne, Newgrange, Ardgillian Castle, Slane Castle, Croke Park Horse racing, golf, Xtreme.ie, walking
300 delegates 7 3 +353 21 421 9012 sales@castlemartyrresort.ie
9 meeting rooms, largest capacity 600 3 Emer Smith sales@cavancrystalhotel.com
650 delegates 7 Andrew Greenslade,+353 (0) 1 690 6610 andrew.greenslade@citynorthhotel.com
3 3 3 7 Additional Equipment can be organized
3 3 3 Can be hired at an additional cost
3 3 3 3
3 3 3 Complimentary Wi-Fi 3 3
3 3 7 3 7
3 7 7 7 3
3 7 7 3
3 3 7 3
3 3 7 3
103
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10/04/2014 12:39:16
86
Venue Directory Conferencing 2014
Citywest Hotel, Conference & Event Centre
Clayton Hotel
The Convention Centre Dublin
Venue Directory Address:
Saggart, Co. Dublin
Ballybrit, Co. Galway
Spencer Dock, North Wall Quay, Dublin 1
+353 (0) 1 401 0500 +353 (0) 1 458 8756 events@citywesthotel.com
+353 (0) 91 721 900 +353 (0) 91 396 343 info@clayton.ie
+353 (0) 1 856 0000 N/A sales@theccd.ie
www.citywesthotel.com
www.clayton.ie
www.theccd.ie
4HHHH 20 minutes from Dublin City and Airport. Luas connection to Dublin. Direct Access to national motorways 774 Guest Rooms & Suites
4HHHH Directly off the Dublin - Galway Motorway, 4km from Galway City Centre. Located opposite Galway Race Course 195
Gala Dining for up to 2,000 guests. 2 on-site restaurants
Dining at the Enclosure Bar and Bistro and Tribes Restaurant
N/A 20 minutes from Dublin Airport, close to Dublin Ferry Port, excellent access to road, bus and Luas routes Within walking distance to Dublin’s 20,000 hotel bedrooms Banqueting faclities for up to 3,000 guests
3 Lounges
The Enclosure Bar and Bistro - music every Sat night and on selected evenings
Facilites on-site, as well as a host of bars and restaurants nearby in the city centre
Full gym, fitness studio & 20m indoor pool
20m swimming pool, sauna, steam room, cardio gym
N/A
Golf course: (on-site or nearby)
18 Hole Christy O’Connor Jnr. designed Championship Golf Course
Galway Bay Golf Club 4km from hotel
There are many golf courses close to Dublin city centre
Activities & local attractions:
Guinness Storehouse, Dublin Zoo, Irish National Stud & Japanese Gardens, Kildare Shopping Village
Cruising, sailing, historic walks, activities, sight-seeing in Connemara and the Burren, shopping & gourmet dining
Dublin city centre with its major tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, shops and top hotels within walking distance
Up to 4,000 3 Orla McAleese, +353 (0) 1 401 0692 omcaleese@citywesthotel.com
800 delegates 3 Darragh O’Connor, +353 (0) 91 721 900 darragh.oconnor@clayton.ie
8-8,000
3 3 3 3
3 3 3 3
3 3 3 3 Latest technology in AV and lighting
3 3 3 3 3 Complimentary Wi-Fi up to 2,000 users
3 3 3 3 3
3 3 3 3 3 Wi-Fi in all halls and meeting rooms
3 3 3 3
3 3 3 3
3 On request On request 3
Tel: Fax: Email: Web: Star Rating: Location: (proximity to transport links, etc) No. of bedrooms: Dining facilities:
Bar & entertainment facilities: Leisure centre facilities:
Conferencing Conferencing Capacity: Dedicated conference centre: Conference co-ordinator: co-ordinator contact details: Audiovisual Equipment Sound system: Screen: Projector: Video Equipment: Other: Technical Equipment Laptop connection to LCD: Teleconferencing: Video conferencing: Internet/Broadband access: Remote conferencing: Other: Support Services Technician: Secretarial Support: Interpreter: Disability access:
081 Conf.2014_Directory final.indd 86
Adrienne Clarke sales@theccd.ie
11/04/2014 17:20:04
Venue Directory Conferencing 2014
Croke Park Conference Centre
Jones’s Road, Dublin 3
Crowne Plaza Dublin Northwood
87
Finnstown Country House Hotel
Druids Glen Resort
Newtownmountkennedy, Co Wicklow
Newcastle Road, Lucan, Co. Dublin
+353 (0) 1 819 2300 +353 (0) 1 819 2313 events@crokepark.ie
Northwood Park, Santry Demesne, Santry, Dublin 9 +353 (0) 1 862 8888 +353 (0) 1 862 8800 events@crowneplazadublin.ie
+353 (0) 1 287 0800 +353 (0) 1 287 0848 sales@druidsglenresort.com
+353 (0) 1 601 0700 +353 (0) 1 628 1088 info@finnstown-hotel.ie
www.crokepark.ie
www.crowneplazadublin.ie
www.druidsglenresort.com
www.finnstown.com
4HHHH 1km from city centre, 7km from Dublin Airport, 15 minutes to DART and Luas and five minutes to bus and rail stops 232 bedrooms at the 4* Croke Park Hotel
4HHHH Close to Dublin Airport and minutes from Junction 4 off the M50
5HHHHH Located just 30 minutes south of Dublin and 40 minutes from Dublin Airport, set in 400 acres of rolling countryside. 145
3HHH 20 minutes from Dublin city centre and 25 minutes from Dublin Airport
Private dining facilities with superior food and beverage offering. Onsite Café at the GAA Museum Bars, function and reception rooms throughout the venue
Touzai Restaurant
Druids Brasserie, 13th Bar & Pavilion Lounge, Outdoor decking for BBQ, Private dining rooms, Golf Clubhouse 13th Bar. Ballroom
The Peacock Restaurant, the Wood Quay Bar and the Cellar Bar
Stadium Tours available from the GAA Museum
Onsite Gym
18m indoor heated pool, sauna, steam room, Jacuzzi, gymnasium, Spa
Swimming pool, gym, Turkish bath, tennis court
Portmarnock, Clontarf, Royal Dublin
Nearby
Two championship golf courses on-site – Druids Glen & Druids Heath
Six championship golf courses nearby
The GAA Museum located onsite is open year round for museum, and stadium & Etihad Skyline rooftop tours
5 miles from Dublin city centre, less than 10 minute drive to Croke Park, Butler’s Chocolate Factory and Go-Karting
Greystones & Kilcoole beaches, Horseriding, Kilruddery House & Gardens, Powerscourt Estate, Mount Usher Garden
Team building activities available on request, Liffey Valley Shopping Centre close to the hotel
8-2,200 3 Sinead Heneghan, +353 (0) 1 819 2301 events@crokepark.ie
1,000 Theatre style 3 Judith Graham, +353 (0) 1 862 8808 jgraham@crowneplazadublin.ie
400 Theatre style 3 Damien Nolan, +353 (0) 1 287 0809 damien.nolan@druidsglenresort.com
Up to 300 11 meeting rooms Tristan Jacob tjacob@finnstown-hotel.ie
3 3 3 3
3 3 3 On request
3 3 3 3
3 3 3 3
3 3 3 3 FREE WiFi On request Plasmas throughout
3 On request 3 (Executive Boardroom) 3 On request
3 3 On request 3
3 3 7 3 7
3 Full dedicated business services centre On request 3
3 On request On request 3
On request On request On request 3
3 3 3 3
081 Conf.2014_Directory final.indd 87
204
Cinnabar Red
105
The Wood Quay Bar, the Cellar Bar and the Library Suite
11/04/2014 17:20:29
88
Venue Directory Conferencing 2014
Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel
The Gibson Hotel
Four Seasons Hotel
Venue Directory Address: Tel: Fax: Email: Web: Star Rating: Location: (proximity to transport links, etc) No. of bedrooms: Dining facilities:
Bar & entertainment facilities: Leisure centre facilities:
Golf course: (on-site or nearby) Activities & local attractions:
Conferencing Conferencing Capacity: Dedicated conference centre: Conference co-ordinator: co-ordinator contact details: Audiovisual Equipment Sound system: Screen: Projector: Video Equipment: Other: Technical Equipment Laptop connection to LCD: Teleconferencing: Video conferencing: Internet/Broadband access: Remote conferencing: Other: Support Services Technician: Secretarial Support: Interpreter: Disability access:
081 Conf.2014_Directory final.indd 88
Killiney, Co. Dublin
Simmonscourt Road, Dublin 4
The Point Village, Dublin 1
+353 (0) 1 230 5400 +353 (0) 1 230 5430 alicia.kenny@fitzpatricks.com
+353 (0) 1 665 4000 +353 (0) 1 655 4099 sales.dublin@fourseasons.com
+353 (0) 1 681 5053 +353 (0) 1 681 5051 events@thegibsonhotel.ie
www.fitzpatrickcastle.com
www.fourseasons.com/dublin
www.thegibsonhotel.ie
4HHHH 14km from Dublin city centre and 28km from Dublin Airport. Aircoach service to and from the hotel hourly 113
5HHHHH 25 minutes from Dublin Airport via Port Tunnel, near to main shopping area, IFSC and The Convention Centre 197
4HHHH Direct from Dublin Airport in 15 minutes via Dublin’s Port Tunnel. Luas line on doorstep of the hotel 252
Two award-winning restaurants, the contemporary Dungeon Bar & Grill and PJs, offering traditional fine dining The Library Bar or refurbished Dungeon Bar. Live entertainment on Friday and Saturday nights Fully-equipped leisure centre, including 20m swimming pool, sauna, Jacuzzi and steam room Several golf courses nearby, including Druid’s Glen and Powerscourt Golf Course Golf, Leopardstown Racecourse, hill walking, sailing in Dún Laoghaire Marina, Dalkey Village, Dundrum Town Centre
A range of dining options are available at the hotel offering international cuisine using the finest Irish ingredients The Lobby Lounge Bar, the perfect meeting place and the chic Ice Bar with extensive list of wines by the glass Full service spa including fitness area, swimming pool, Jacuzzi, steam room, sauna and relaxation lounge Elm Park, Portmarnock, The European
Good food does not have to be fussy, at Coda Eatery we let the ingredients speak for themselves Hemidemisemiquaver Bar – located on the 3rd floor, our bar is open yet intimate, chic yet earthy Gym – 15 pieces of cardiovascular equipment, 24/7 access for residents and TVs on each piece of equipment Carton House
The RDS, Aviva Stadium, Trinity College Dublin, National Gallery of Ireland
Walking distance from The Convention Centre Dublin. It is also located beside the O2 and Aviva Stadium
600 theatre in Prince Regent Suite 9 rooms in dedicated centre, 12 total Alicia Kenny, +353 (0) 1 230 5460 alicia.kenny@fitzpatricks.com
500 6 meeting rooms including 2 ballrooms Aline Fitzgerald aline.fitzgerald@fourseasons.com
300 delegates and 6 break-out rooms 7 On-site assistance on request Stephanie Hughes
3 3 3 3
3 3 3 3
3 3 3 3
3 3 3 Complimentary throughout 3
3 3 3 3 3
3 3 3 3 3 7
3 3 3 3
On request On request On request 3
3 3 3 3
11/04/2014 17:20:59
Venue Directory Conferencing 2014
The Green Isle
The Kildare Hotel, hotel name here Spa & Country Club
The Hunt Museum
Conference & Leisure Hotel
89
The Killeshin Hotel
Straffan Co. Kildare
Dublin Road, Portlaoise, Co. Laois
+353 (0) 1 459 3406 +353 (0) 1 459 5828 info@greenislehotel.com
The Custom House, Rutland Street, Limerick City +353 (0) 61 490 084 N/A info@huntmuseum.com
+353 (0) 1 601 7200 +353 (0) 1 601 7298 sales@kclub.ie
+353 (0) 57 86 31200 +353 (0) 57 86 31205 events@the killeshin.com
www.greenislehotel.com
www.huntmuseum.com
www.kclub.ie
www.thekilleshin.com
3HHH No. 69 bus stops outside the hotel and goes to and from Dublin city centre. Red Luas Line approx 15 minute walk 270
4HHHH N/A
5HHHHH 35 Minutes from Dublin Airport
N/A
69 Bedrooms Plus 12 Courtyard Suites
4HHHH Exit16 off M7/M9, railway station 3km from hotel, won 7th place in Ireland’s Greenest Hotel certified by the GHA 87
A range of dining options available such as carvery, bistro & main restaurant
Newly renovated café seats 70, Captains’ Room seats 55, library seats 17
The River Room Restaurant & Legends Restaurant
Cedar Bistro and Cedar Bar
Live music in the main bar every Friday & Saturday
Wine license
Smurfit Bar & Legends Bar
Cedar Bar serving hot food from 12.30pm daily, Sky Sports available
Fully equipped gym, swimming pool, children’s pool, sauna & steam room
N/A
Newlands Golf or Grange Castle golf course close by
N/A
The K Spa, Swimming Pool, Sauna, Steam Room, Outdoor Hot-Tub, Tennis Courts Two Championship Golf Courses on site – Home to the Ryder Cup 2006
Zest leisure centre with a fully equipped gymnasium, 20m deck level pool, steam room, sauna and Jacuzzi 8 courses within 30km, nearest course 10km
Walking distance to Corkagh Park with playground, pet farm, fishing lakes. Short distance to Dublin Zoo & Tayto Park
N/A
Horse Riding, Clay Pigeon Shooting, Archery, Falconry, Bike rides, Kildare National Stud
Emo House & Gardens, Slievebloom Mountains
750 delegates 3 Suzanne McCabe
Up to 100 7 Naomi O'Nolan naomi@huntmuseum.com
3 7 Adrian Mooney
350 3 Pauline Barry +353 (0) 57 86 31213 forum@thekilleshin.com
3 3 7 3
3 3 3 7
7 Microphone available 3 3 7 Flip Charts, Conference Phone
3 3 3 3
3 3 7 3 3 Some service would be an additional cost
3 3 7 3 3
3 3 7 3 7
3 3 On request 3 On request
7 7 7 3
3 3 7 3
3 3 7 3
3 Limited, photocopying etc. 7 3
Newlands Cross, Nass Road, Dublin 22
081 Conf.2014_Directory final.indd 89
11/04/2014 17:21:43
90
Venue Directory Conferencing 2014
Kilronan Castle Estate & Spa
Lough Eske Castle, a Solís Hotel & Spa
Lyrath Estate Hotel & Convention Centre
Venue Directory Address: Tel: Fax: Email: Web: Star Rating: Location: (proximity to transport links, etc) No. of bedrooms: Dining facilities:
Bar & entertainment facilities: Leisure centre facilities:
Golf course: (on-site or nearby) Activities & local attractions:
Conferencing Conferencing Capacity: Dedicated conference centre: Conference co-ordinator: co-ordinator contact details: Audiovisual Equipment Sound system: Screen: Projector: Video Equipment: Other: Technical Equipment Laptop connection to LCD: Teleconferencing: Video conferencing: Internet/Broadband access: Remote conferencing: Other: Support Services Technician: Secretarial Support: Interpreter: Disability access:
081 Conf.2014_Directory final.indd 90
Ballyfarnon, Co. Roscommon
Lough Eske, Donegal Town, Co. Donegal
+353 (0) 71 961 8000 +353 (0) 71 961 8001 enquiries@kilronancastle.ie
+353 (0) 74 972 5100 +353 (0) 74 972 3762 meetings.lougheske@solishotels.com
Dublin Road (now Paulstown Road R712), Co. Kilkenny +353 (0) 56 776 0088 +353 (0) 56 776 0089 events@lyrath.com
www.kilronancastle.ie
www.solislougheskecastle.com
www.lyrath.com
4HHHH Located 2.5 hours from Dublin & 1 hour from Knock International Airport. Located 12KM from Carrick on Shannon Bus 84
5HHHHH 1 hour 40 mins drive to Ireland West Airport, 2 hours drive to Belfast airports, 3 hours drive from Dublin Airport 96 Guestrooms including 16 Suites and a 2 bedroom Presidential Suite Cedar’s Grill Restaurant and The Gallery Bar
5HHHHH One hour to Dublin Airport, 1.5 hours to Cork Airport, 30 minutes to Waterford Airport. Five minutes to train and bus 137
One Fine Dining Restaurant The Douglas Hyde Restaurant, plus all Day Menu available in The Drawing Room 2 Bars The Drawing Room & The Dungeon Bar. Entertainment available on request State of The Art Spa & Leisure Centre including pool & gymnasium
The Gallery Bar and the Oak Bar. Live entertainment every Friday and Saturday
Yindees Oriental Thai restaurant, La Perla fine dining restaurant, Tupper’s Bar & Terrace Tuppers Bar & Terrace, The Wine Cellar, The X Bar
Award Winning Spa Solis, Thermal Suite, 17m pool and fully equipped state of the art Gym Donegal Golf Club, an 18 links Championship Course 10 minutes drive from the Castle A full range of On-Site/Off-Site Activities list available on request
17m swimming pool, Jacuzzi, steam room, gymnasium, Oasis Spa
10-800 Delegates Theatre Style 3 Ciara Maxwell cmaxwell@hanlycastle.com
400 theatre 3 Sinead McGowan, +353 (0) 74 974 3130 sinead.mcgowan@solishotels.com
1,500 theatre 3 Dervla O’Connor +353 (0) 56 770 5852
3 3 3 7
3 3 3 3
3 3 3 On request Natural daylight in all meeting rooms
3 On request On request 3 7
3 3 3 3 3
3 On request On request 3 On request Built-in screens and projectors
On request 3 7 3
3 3 3 3
3 On request On request 3
N/A
Fishing, Walking Trails, Archery, Falconry, Bike Riding, Arigna Mines, Moonriver Shannon Cruise, Lough Key Forest Park
Mount Juliet, Gowran Golf Club and Kilkenny Golf Club all nearby Kilkenny Castle, Kilkenny Craft Trail, Smithwicks Brewery and outdoor activies on Lyrath Esate with Dynamic Events
11/04/2014 17:22:19
Venue Directory Conferencing 2014
Conference & Events Venue
The Mansion House
The Morgan Hotel
The Morrison, a DoubleTree by Hilton
91
Mount Wolseley Resort & Spa
Mansion House, Dawson Street, Dublin 2
Temple Bar, 10 Fleet Street, Dublin 2
Lower Ormond Quay, Dublin 1
Tullow, Co. Carlow
+353 (0) 1 634 4628 N/A enquiries@mansionhouse.ie
+353 (0) 1 643 7000 +353 (0) 1 643 7060 meetings@themorgan.com
+353 (0) 1 887 2400 +353 (0) 1 874 4039 events@morrisonhotel.ie
+353 (0) 59 918 0100 +353 (0) 59 915 2123 info@mountwolseley.ie
www.mansionhouse.ie
www.themorgan.com
www.morrisonhotel.ie
www.mountwolseley.ie
N/A Dawson Street, Dublin City Centre. Car park, taxi rank and all public transport routes N/A
4HHHH Excellent city centre transport links and close to the IFSC, the primary business district 121
4HHHH Luas stop is 200m behind hotel and links to Heuston and Connolly train stations. 11km from Dublin Airport 138
4HHHH Just over an hour’s drive from Dublin city and Rosslare Harbour, three hours from Cork and two hours from Belfast 143
FIRE Restaurant & Lounge can cater for up to 280 guests. Catering partner for larger events - With Taste Full bar in the venue plus stunning new ground floor Lounge overlooking The Lord Mayor’s Garden N/A
Browse the tapas menu in the funky Morgan Bar
The Morrisson Grill is our all-day restaurant and dining area, featuring Dublin’s first Josper Grill Quay 14, all-day destination bar. Signature cocktails created like songs. Aficionados of Irish whiskeys and beers On site Fitness Room with cardio vascular equipment & free weights
Fredericks award winning AA Rosette fine dining restaurant, and a number of private dining rooms available Cocktail bar area, Morrissey Bar, Aaron Lounge and The Wolseley Bar in the golf club State-of-the-art leisure centre with fully equipped gymnasium
N/A
Within close proximity to local Dublin golf courses
Within 5km
18 hole championship golf course designed by Christy O’Connor Jnr.
St. Stephen’s Green, Trinity College and the Book of Kells, Grafton Street, Dublin Castle
A short stroll to Grafton Street, Dublin’s main shopping thoroughfare and to many of Dublin’s theatres
Guinness Storehouse, Jameson Distillery, Trinity College, Grafton St, Henry St & Shopping centre within walking distance
Team building activities on-site, historial gardens and walks
650 theatre style 3 Caroline Hutchinson, +353 (0) 16344628 events@mansionhouse.ie
70 On request Leila Ryan meetings@themorgan.com
240 Theatre Style 7 James Byrne, +353 (0) 1 887 2458 jbyrne@morrisonhotel.ie
900 theatre, 450 banquet Part of the hotel Lisa Morrissey lmorrissey@mountwolseley.ie
3 3 3 3 Upgrades for all requirements available
On request On request On request On request
3 3 3 3 Flipchart, Podium & mic in larger rooms
In main conference room 3 3 On request Portable sound system available
3 3 3 3 3 Upgrades for all requirements available
On request On request On request 3 On request
3 3 Charge payable for use 7 3 7
3 3 On request Complimentary Wi-Fi in meeting rooms 7
3 3 3 On request 3
On request On request On request 3
Basic support onsite Printing & faxing at a charge 7 3
On request 3 On request 3
081 Conf.2014_Directory final.indd 91
The Morgan Bar is a chic and stylish cocktail bar with a drinks list featuring the best mojitos in Dublin N/A
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92
Venue Directory Conferencing 2014
O’Callaghan Alexander Hotel
Palmerstown House Estate
Pillo Hotel Ashbourne
Venue Directory Address: Tel: Fax: Email: Web: Star Rating: Location: (proximity to transport links, etc) No. of bedrooms: Dining facilities:
Bar & entertainment facilities: Leisure centre facilities:
Golf course: (on-site or nearby) Activities & local attractions:
Conferencing Conferencing Capacity: Dedicated conference centre: Conference co-ordinator: co-ordinator contact details: Audiovisual Equipment Sound system: Screen: Projector: Video Equipment: Other: Technical Equipment Laptop connection to LCD: Teleconferencing: Video conferencing: Internet/Broadband access: Remote conferencing: Other: Support Services Technician: Secretarial Support: Interpreter: Disability access:
081 Conf.2014_Directory final.indd 92
Fenian Street, Dublin 2
Johnstown, Co. Kildare
The Rath, Ashbourne, County Meath
+353 (0) 1 607 3700 +353 (0) 1 661 5663 events.dublin@ocallaghanhotels.com
+353 (0) 45 906 901 N/A info@palmerstownhouse.com
353+ (0) 1 835 6800 353+ (0) 1 835 6801 info@pillohotelashbourne.com
www.ocallaghanhotels.com
www.palmerstownhouse.com
www.pillohotelashbourne.com
4HHHH Within walking distance of Pearse Street train station, Luas, Grafton Street and Temple Bar areas 102
N/A 20 minutes from Dublin, located off junction 8 (Johnstown Naas) on M7
4HHHH 20km from Dublin Airport, 25km from Dublin City Centre, 12km from M50 (exit 5), 18km from M1 (Drogheda South exit) 148
Extensive bar menu served all day until 10pm
Sansorino Restaurant, Empery Bar & Bistro
Grill 21 Restaurant and Red Bar/Lounge
Bar
Empery Bar & Bistro
Red Bar/Lounge and Karaoke Room
Fitness centre
Archery, Clay Pidgeon Shooting, Falconry
Local golf courses within a 30-minute drive
On site – 18 hole championship course
Modern gymnasium, 16m pool, Jacuzzi, steam room, sauna, hydrotherapy area. Jule spa on site Ashbourne Golf Course is 5km away
National Gallery, History Museum, National Library, Aviva Stadium, Trinity College, 02 Arena, Grand Canal Theatre
Kildare Shopping Village, Johnstown Garden Centre, Japanese Gardens, The Irish National Stud
Tayto Park (4km), Puddenhill (12km), Newgrange (20km), Slane Castle (18km), Dublin City (25km) Trim Castle (22km)
400 theatre N/A 3 events.dublin@ocallaghanhotels.com
180 3 Marian Coughlan events@palmerstownhouse.ie
Minium 2 pax, Maximum 650 pax 3 Ciara Conlan ciara.conlan@pillohotelashbourne.com
3 3 3 3
3 3 3 3 Helicopter Landing
3 In-built sound system 3 10ft screen, 6ft screen first floor 3 On request from our AV supplier
3 On request On request 3 7
3 3 3 3 3
3 On request from our AV supplier On request from our AV supplier 3 On request from our AV supplier
On request On request On request 3
3 3 7 Can be arranged by prior appointment 3
On request from our AV supplier 7 7 3
20
11/04/2014 17:24:11
Venue Directory Conferencing 2014
Powerscourt Hotel Resort Spa
Portlaoise Heritage Hotel
Town Centre, Portlaoise, Co. Laois
Radisson Blu Royal Hotel, Dublin
93
RDS
Golden Lane, Dublin 8
Merrion Road, Ballsbridge, Dublin 4
+353 (0) 57 867 8588 +353 (0) 57 867 1999 info@theheritagehotel.com
Powerscourt Estate, Enniskerry, Co. Wicklow +353 (0) 1 274 8888 +353 (0) 1 274 9999 info@powerscourthotel.com
+353 (0) 1 898 2900 +353 (0) 1 898 2909 sales.dublin.royal@radissonblu.com
+353 (0) 1 668 0866 +353 (0) 1 660 4014 sales@rds.ie
www.theheritagehotel.com
www.powerscourthotel.com
www.radissonblu.ie/royalhotel-dublin
www.rds.ie
4HHHH Portlaoise town centre location, two minutes off the M7 motorway, 5 minute walk from Portlaoise Train Station 110
5HHHHH Located in picturesque Enniskerry village, 20 minutes from Dublin city, 30 minutes from Dublin Airport 200
4HHHH 5 minute walk to Grafton Street and Stephens Green. Only 20km from airport
2 restaurants and 1 bar serving food, private dining for up to 300 guests
Sika Restaurant, the Sugarloaf Lounge & McGills Pub
Our onsite restaurant opens for dinner daily from 18.00h – 22.00h
N/A Over 15 local buses, DART within walking distance, 25 minutes from Dublin Airport via port tunnel, on Aircoach route Part of the RDS Conference Village, 2,000 bedrooms within walking distance Catering for up to 5,000 people
The Charter Bar, which is the hotels residents’ bar, and Molly’s Bar, offering live music each weekend 22m pool, full gymnasium, sauna, steam room and spa
McGills Pub
Our SURE bar is open all day for lunch right through until standard closing hours
Yes
A state-of-the-art fitness suite and the luxurious ESPA featuring a 20metre Swarovski-lit swimming pool. Two championship golf courses on the Estate
Complimentary use of energie Fitness gym which is a 5 minute walk from the hotel Nearest golf club is 5km away
N/A
Slieve Bloom mountains, fishing, horseriding
Fishing, archery, 4x4 off roading, horse riding, Powerscourt House & Gardens, Glendalough, Mount Usher Gardens
We are only steps away from St. Patricks Cathedral, Dublin Castle, Christchurch and St. Stephens Green
The RDS is a short distance from Grafton Street, Sandymount Strand and is home to Leinster rugby
2-550 3 Sandra Brennan/Carol Dempsey sales@theheritagehotel.com
400 3 Lisa Ferrick, +353 (0) 1 274 8888 lisa.ferrick@powerscourthotel.com
400 pax 3 Lisa Sinclair , +353 (0) 1 898 2934 lisa.sinclair@radissonblu.com
2-6,500 7 Adrienne Hughes, +353 (0) 1 240 7236 adrienneh@rds.ie
3 3 3 7
3 3 3 3 AV menu upon request
3 3 3 3
3 3 3 On request
3 3 7 3 7
3 3 3 3 Complimentary 3
3 3 3 3 3 Complimentary Wifi
3 On request On request 3 On request
On request 7 7 3
3 7 7 3
3 3 3 3
3 3 On request 3
Close to the hotel is a wide choice of golf courses for all levels of golfers
081 Conf.2014_Directory final.indd 93
150
There are a number of champion golf courses a short distance from the RDS
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94
Venue Directory Conferencing 2014
Residence
The River Lee Hotel
Royal Marine Hotel
Venue Directory Address: Tel: Fax: Email: Web: Star Rating: Location: (proximity to transport links, etc) No. of bedrooms: Dining facilities:
Bar & entertainment facilities: Leisure centre facilities:
Golf course: (on-site or nearby) Activities & local attractions:
Conferencing Conferencing Capacity: Dedicated conference centre: Conference co-ordinator: co-ordinator contact details: Audiovisual Equipment Sound system: Screen: Projector: Video Equipment: Other: Technical Equipment Laptop connection to LCD: Teleconferencing: Video conferencing: Internet/Broadband access: Remote conferencing: Other: Support Services Technician: Secretarial Support: Interpreter: Disability access:
081 Conf.2014_Directory final.indd 94
41 St. Stephen’s Green, Dublin 2
Western Road, Cork
Marine Road, Dún Laoghaire, Co. Dublin
+353 (0) 1 662 0000 N/A info@residence.ie
+353 (0) 21 425 2700 +353 (0) 21 427 4477 riverlee@doylecollection.com
+353 (0) 1 230 0030 +353 (0) 1 271 2511 events@royalmarine.ie
www.residence.ie
www.doylecollection.com/riverlee
www.royalmarine.ie
N/A St. Stephen’s Green is a hub for all intercity transportation including DART, Luas and bus N/A
4HHHH City centre location, 8km from airport
4HHHH One-minute walk to DART station and serviced by many bus routes
182
228
Restaurant FortyOne is our awardwinning restaurant while the Lounge & Terrace serves a casual menu We have four bars and a variety of live music acts at the weekend
Weir Bistro 150-seater venue, Weir Room private dining 60 guests
Dún Restaurant and Hardy’s Bar
Weir Bar
Hardy’s Bar
N/A
Fully-equipped gym, 18m swimming pool and day spa
The Pier Health Club and sansana SPA
We organise member golf outings to some of the country’s best courses
In close proximity to many golf courses
Dún Laoghaire Golf Club and in proximity to other local golf courses
We are steps away from many galleries, museums, theatres and the National Concert Hall
English market, University College Cork, St. Fin Barre’s Cathedral, Midleton Distillery, Cork City Goal, Blarney Castle
Dún Laoghaire pier and promenade, shopping, walking, trekking, watersports
3 7 Karen Doyle, +353 (0) 1 662 0000 karend@residence.ie
150 delegates theatre 8 meeting rooms Janice Casey +353 (0) 21 493 7723 janice_casey@doylecollection.com
750 3 Gina Passi events@royalmarine.ie
3 3 3 3 Conference phone; iPads
On request 3 3 3 1 flip chart
3 3 3 3
3 3 7 3 7
3 3 On request 3 On request
3 3 3 3 3
3 3 7 7
On request 3 On request 3
3 3 7 3
11/04/2014 17:25:57
Venue Directory Conferencing 2014
Slieve Russell Hotel Golf & Country Club
Sligo Park Hotel & Leisure Club
95
Tulfarris Hotel & Golf Resort
Thomand Park
Ballyconnell, Co. Cavan
Pearse Road, Sligo
Cratloe Road, Limerick
+353 (0) 49 952 6444 +353 (0) 49 952 6444 enquiries@slieverussell.ie
+353 (0) 71 919 0400 +353 (0) 71 916 9556 sligo@leehotels.com
+353 (0) 61 421 100 +353 (0) 61 421 101 events@thomondpark.ie
Blessington Lakes. Blessington, County Wicklow +353 (0) 45 867 600 +353 (0) 45 867 601 banq@tulfarris.com
www.slieve-russell.ie
www.sligoparkhotel.com
www.thomondpark.ie
www.tulfarrishotel.com
4HHHH 90 minutes from Belfast and Dublin via M1 or N3 Motorways
4HHHH 2.6km from Sligo Train Station, 3.4km from Sligo Bus Station, 51.8km from Ireland West Airport Knock 136
N/A Close to the M7, Limerick train station and Shannon Airport
4HHHH Follow the N81 past Blessington and turn left at Poulaphuca and left again into Tulfarris 74
Conall Cearnach Restaurant looks out over the hotel’s gardens. The Setanta offers exquisite European cuisine The Kells Bar is the perfect place to enjoy a few drinks before dinner
Carvery Lunch, Evening Bar Menu, Evening Restaurant Menu
A modern and multi-functional venue with suites of varying sizes
3
All suites feature natural lighting and private bars
Fitness Suite – 20-metre swimming pool, Jacuzzi, steam room, sauna & smoothie bar. On-site spa and wellness facilities On-site 18-hole championship course and 9-hole par-3 academy course
3
N/A
12km from Strandhill Golf, 10.5km from Rosses Point Golf
A variety of golf courses in close vicinity
Marbel Arch Caves, Florence Court House, Global Geopark, Tullydermott Falls, canoe centre
Rosses Point, Strandhill, Hazelwood, Doony Rock, Slish Wood, Carrowmore Tombs, Benbulben Mountain
Thomond Park Stadium and museum tour, King John’s Castle, St Mary’s Cathedral and The Bishop’s Palace
18 hole championship course set across 3 peninsulas of the Lakes plus driving range and short game facilities Team Building, archery, hiking, kayaking. Russborough House & Punchestown Race Track 10 minutes drive
2-1,200 delegates 3 3 +353 (0) 49 952 6444
3 7 Sales Office, Sligo Park Hotel +353 (0) 71 919 0405
800 3 suites and 20 executive boxes Angela Foley, +353 (0) 614 2129 angelafoley@thomondpark.ie
3 3 Lillian Mahon lmahon@tulfarris.com
3 3 3 3
3 3 3 7
3 3 3 3
3 3 3 3
3 3 3 3 3
3 7 7 3 7
3 3 3 3 7
3 3 3 3 3
On request On request 7 3
7 7 7 3
3 7 7 3
3 7 7 3
222
081 Conf.2014_Directory final.indd 95
N/A
From 2 to 250, private dining in Hotel or Manor house plus Banqueting Centre can host up to 250 The Elm Bar is a perfect casual entertainment venue plus the Banqueting Centre hosts up to 250 delegates Treatment and Massage Rooms and Therapist on-site
11/04/2014 17:26:32
96
Venue Directory Conferencing 2014
Tullamore Court Hotel
The Westbury Hotel
Wood Quay Venue
Venue Directory Address: Tel: Fax: Email: Web: Star Rating: Location: (proximity to transport links, etc) No. of bedrooms: Dining facilities:
Bar & entertainment facilities: Leisure centre facilities:
Golf course: (on-site or nearby) Activities & local attractions:
Conferencing Conferencing Capacity: Dedicated conference centre: Conference co-ordinator: co-ordinator contact details: Audiovisual Equipment Sound system: Screen: Projector: Video Equipment: Other: Technical Equipment Laptop connection to LCD: Teleconferencing: Video conferencing: Internet/Broadband access: Remote conferencing: Other: Support Services Technician: Secretarial Support: Interpreter: Disability access:
081 Conf.2014_Directory final.indd 96
Tullamore, Co Offaly
Grafton Street, Dublin 2
+353 (0) 57 934 6666 +353 (0) 57 934 6677 info@tullamorecourthotel.ie
+353 (0)1 679 1122 +353 (0)1 679 7078 Westbury@doylecollection.com
Dublin City Council, Wood Quay, Dublin 8 +353 (0) 1 222 2857 +353 (0) 1 222 3329 woodquayvenue@dublincity.ie
www.tullamorecourthotel.ie
www.doylecollection.com/westbury
N/A
4HHHH Town centre location just over 60 minutes from Dublin & Galway 500m from train station in Tullamore town 103
5HHHHH City Centre; 12km from Dublin Airport; 3km from Heuston Station
N/A N/A
205
N/A
The Restaurant, the Bistro & the Furlong bar private dining is also available
Wilde – The Restaurant, Café Novo, The Gallery, The Marble Bar
N/A
The Furlong Bar. Lively entertainment every Friday and Saturday night
Café Novo, The Marble Bar
N/A
Award winning leisure centre, 20m swimming pool, fitness suites, fitness classes. sauna, steam room and Jacuzzi 18 golf courses nearby such as Tullamore Golf Course and Esker Hills Golf Club
Fitness Suite
N/A
7
N/A
Tullamore Dew Visitor Centre, Lockes Distillery, Lough Boora Parklands, Slieve Bloom Mountains, Clonmacnoise walking
Centrally located on Grafton Street, within walking distance of Trinity College & St Stephen’s Green
N/A
5 – 750 3 Donna Duffy, +353 (0) 57 934 6689 donna@tullamorecourthotel.ie
Maximum of 200 delegates 3 3 +353 (0)1 646 3387 Westbury_events@doylecollection.com
120 theatre style. Other layouts possible 3 Ailish McCarthy +353 (0) 1 222 2857
3 3 3 7
3 3 3 7
3 3 3 3
3 Speaker Phone 7 3 7
3 7 7 3 7
3
3 7 7 3
Staff member can assist with in-house AV 7 7 3
Staff member can assist with in-house AV 7 7 3
7 7
11/04/2014 18:21:57
Aviva Stadium Where Ireland Does Business
Make Your Next Event Stand Out A purpose built conference and event venue which marries a spectacular event space with an award winning team to deliver outstanding results At Aviva Stadium we plan corporate meetings, car launches, exhibitions, award ceremonies and association conferences. Guests have dined amongst the newest vehicles in our Atrium and collected prizes on the impressive stage sets in the 1872 suite. Clients have created supermarket aisles in our President’s Suite and raced Formula 1 cars in the tunnel. Aviva Stadium’s Meeting and Events team create memorable corporate events with the added wow factor. The versatility and scale of the venue means we can accommodate an extensive range of events within our 50 event spaces. Call our sales team today and let Aviva Stadium make your next event stand out.
s e c n e r e f n Co 4 1 0 2 22nd May 2014
I just want to say a big thank you to all of the staff at the Aviva Stadium for helping us ensure that the Intouch event last week ran brilliantly. The facilities were perfect for what we were trying to do coupled with efficient an friendly service. The delegates commented particularly on the excellent quality of the food served over the three days so please pass our thanks to the catering team. Ciaran Budds, Diageo
2014
An enormous thank you to the team at Aviva Stadium for your huge efforts in making our Gathering for Action Conference such a success. Your help with planning; at the walk through stage and throughout the execution of a very complex two day programme was invaluable. Yve O’Driscoll British Irish Chamber of Commerce
Radisson Blu Royal Hotel Dublin
A full-day conference, the HR Directors Business Event will explore HR’s role in fostering innovation. Contributors will include leading HR experts and senior business leaders, giving you the ultimate bench marking experience and best practice insights.
11TH June
Retail Conference Camden Court Hotel, Dublin
This practical, informative full day event will focus on how the business sector and individual retailers can inspire and best connect with consumers. Delegates will be provided with a unique opportunity to listen and learn from industry gurus and experienced practitioners and to network with fellow retail colleagues.
Conf Cover 2014.indd 2
2014
12TH June 2014
Supply Chain Management & Procurement Event Camden Court Hotel, Dublin
The Legal Services Regulatory Authority – What to Expect In association with McDowell Purcell Solicitors
Radisson Blu Royal Hotel Dublin
The various amendments adopted at the Select Committee stage in the Oireachtas mean that many provisions of the Legal Services (Regulation) Bill 2011 are now significantly different to those initially proposed. With a strong likelihood that the Bill will come into force within the next twelve months, this half day conference will provide a comprehensive update on recent changes to the Bill and will be of interest to all practising solicitors and barristers, in-house counsel, regulatory bodies, judges, consumer rights groups, legal costs accountants, insurers, court and departmental officials and all other parties involved in the administration of justice in Ireland. 18TH June 2014
The Supply Chain Management & Procurement Event will unravel the issues facing modern supply chains and examine how firms can improve the efficiency and effectiveness of its procurement processes.
Phone: 01-238 2388 Email: sales@avivastadiumevents.ie www.avivastadiumevents.ie
28TH May
HR Director’s Business Event
Change to State Pension Age and Challenge to Mandatory Retirement Radisson Blu Royal Hotel Dublin
This half day conference will examine how increases in State Pension Age will inevitably result in employees seeking to work beyond the age of 65 which, for many employers, has traditionally been the normal contractual retirement age. An expert panel will examine what employers should do when faced with such requests, or indeed, what happens if an employee challenges an employer’s entitlement to retire him/ her at age 65.
For more information on any of these conferences, contact denise.maguire@ashvillemediagroup.com or call 01 432 2238
11/04/2014 18:49:07
CONFERENCING Your complete guide to conferencing and corporate hospitality in Ireland
BUSINESS CONFIDENCE Google, Intel, IBM, Emirates, Microsoft, Accenture, Oracle, KPMG and Teradata are some of the most dynamic giants of today’s business world.
this professionalism has won us no less than 25 industry awards.
They all share a relentless commitment to innovation, service and excellence. So it’s not surprising that they’ve hosted events somewhere with an identical attitude: The Convention Centre Dublin.
Located in Dublin’s rejuvenated docklands – home to many of the capital’s most progressive companies – The CCD has 18,500 hotel rooms nearby, Dublin Airport only 15 minutes away and one of Europe’s most vibrant cities on its doorstep.
The CCD distils all the forward-thinking attitudes that now make Dublin so attractive to world-class businesses like Facebook, Kellogg’s, Pfizer plus many others. And since we opened our doors in 2010,
So if you want a world-class venue for your next event, visit www.theccd.ie today. You’ll soon see why we’ve inspired such confidence in some very inspiring companies.
Contact our Sales Team on: T: +353 1 856 0000 E: sales@theccd.ie W: www.theccd.ie
Conf Cover 2014.indd 1
CONFERENCING 2014 – YOUR COMPLETE GUIDE TO CORPORATE HOSPITALITY IN IRELAND
DUBLIN INSPIRES:
2014
Welcoming
THE WORLD The Convention Centre Dublin One Young World 2014 Promoting youth leadership • Making it Memorable Engaging Your Delegates • Covering the Costs Attract event sponsorship • Identity Parade Expanding corporate identities • PLUS A comprehensive directory of Ireland’s best conferencing venues
11/04/2014 18:47:49