StandOut Magazine Winter 2024

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Thanks to Dawsongroup tcs, all our kegs were kept cold throughout the festival, Craig Thomson, Event Manager at Innserve Ltd

TWINTER 2024

his Winter edition is our last of 2024, so do you mind if I ask you a question? Be honest. How many of you are so busy on-site that the only time you have to respond to a message is when you’re sat on the loo?

I have spent all year chatting to #eventprofs and this topic – welfare, balancing life and work, keeping in touch with friends and family – has cropped up in conversation quite a bit. When you’re working on-site, there is often little time to think about what’s going on at home and lots of friends seem to think you’re having a whale of a time just hanging out with whatever talent is headlining.

Whilst everyone laughs about messaging from the toilet, I would happily bet that everyone can relate. So this leads me to another question, what do we have to do to stop this from happening?

I’d love to know your tips for achieving a proper balance at work and in your personal life. Now this is where you’ll probably say what is a personal life, Caroline? Because you don’t take any time off until October! But seriously, it’s not great. I left the house in May and had my first full week at home in mid-September. I spent a lot of time on the road, visiting event and festival sites and I admit that I have probably done too much. I did vow to ease off a bit next year but no. Instead, the team and I have set ourselves the challenge of covering 20 events that have never featured in StandOut because next year, it’s our 20th anniversary. Yeah, how did that happen!

In 20 years, a lot has changed. The events industry I knew no longer exists. We’ve evolved and adapted and I am certain that we will continue to flex because of fluctuating market conditions and changing audience expectations. What hasn’t changed over the last 20 years is the passion that I see in so many event professionals. It remains the most incredible sector to be a part of and I still love, wholeheartedly, talking to you about your events.

If you would like to be featured in an edition of StandOut magazine next year, or if you have tips on welfare and work/life balance, please drop me a note. I want to talk to more of you next year and make lots of new connections. Just promise me one thing… don’t message me whilst you’re sat on the loo.

Happy reading,

Caroline

PS: Did you miss Event Buyers Live 2024? Don’t worry. Turn to page 15, where you can get the lowdown on #EBL. To register your interest in #EBL25, visit www.eventbuyerslive.com now.

Cover image: ESM Operations/MDLBeast

10 EVENT TENDERS

Check out the latest event tenders and news of contract wins

12 BUILD YOUR IMAGINATION

Battersea Power Station was transformed into a Factory of Creativity by Lego and HelloCharlie

15 THE PLACE TO…

Event Buyers Live 2024 was described as the place to do high-level business and engage in rich, in-depth conversations. Discover why after ten years, EBL is still the only industry event to attend and check out #EBL24 in pictures…

24 MONSTER EFFORT

Halloween events continue to grow in popularity. StandOut looks at a growing market with Lincoln BIG, RG Live and CityCo

28 POT OF GOLD

Arts by the Sea recently demonstrated that not even a storm can get in the way of a festival finale

31 A SHOW OF TWO HALVES

From January 9, Cirque du Soleil will enchant audiences at the Royal Albert Hall with Corteo, a production that will split the famous hall in two

37 KEEPING THE PEACE

Drones, protestors, facial recognition and more. Event organisers and security experts discuss how they are working together to make event sites safe and secure

59 APPETITE FOR SUCCESS

Organisers and industry experts discuss how they are working together to place food and drink front and centre

67 MERRY AND BRIGHT(ON)

Brighton is to get a new festive event this December. The organising team reveal all

69 PUTTING FREELANCERS FIRST

Festivals that lead the way in freelancer welfare are proving that when you treat everyone with consideration, you get a better event

12 BUILD YOUR IMAGINATION

59 APPETITE FOR SUCCESS

37 KEEPING THE PEACE

15 THE PLACE TO…

28 POT OF GOLD

This month’s

CONTRIBUTORS:

OLIVER GARDINER

Drawing on more than 20 years of experience within multiple sectors of the security industry in the UK, Oliver leads Vespasian Security in the delivery of large-scale crowd management and security projects. As part of his role within the United Kingdom Crowd Management Association (UKCMA), Oliver works with industry colleagues to encourage the adoption of best practices to improve standards across the industry and to act as a voice for the companies and thousands of team members who work within those organisations. In this issue, Oliver talks about the challenges that organisers face when managing protestors on event sites.

CAT KEVERN

Cat is both an event freelancer, director of Electric Cat Productions and director of NOWIE (Network of Women in Events). She has extensive experience in the field, from sporting events to festivals in Costa Rica, New Zealand and the UAE, and specialises in event operations, delivery and planning. Wearing many hats, Cat has an overview of the challenges faced by event professionals working in today’s climate, so in this winter issue, she talks about freelancers’ welfare and well-being. Specifically what needs to improve, giving a freelancer’s perspective on what needs to change.

LEE ROBERTS

Lee is head of operations at Lincoln Business Improvement Group (BIG), Lincoln’s business improvement district that aims to promote Lincoln as a retail destination and drive visitors to experience the city. He joined Lincoln BIG in 2020 and has been planning and delivering events, mainly free to attend public events since 2017. His role as head of operations includes many aspects including event planning and delivery. In this edition, Lee discusses how Lincoln BIG is developing The Big Spook, a programme of Halloween events that is entertaining visitors and increasing footfall for local businesses.

Where big ideas meet bold design

Spectacular Event Spaces Modular & Bespoke Structures Sustainability Focussed

John Probyn is the new group director of event operations at Far and Beyond

Rob Nathan has been named managing director of

All-Energy and Dcarbonise have appointed Anam Khan as event manager.

The European Broadcasting Union has appointed Martin Green as director, overseeing the Eurovision Song Contest.

Sonia Howe is chief operating officer and director of impact and legacy at Invictus Games 2027.

PIC

joined The Pet Shop

and Busta

the award ceremony on November 10. Co-op Live, Manchester, hosted the visual spectacle, the first time the event was staged in the city, having previously taken place in Glasgow, Liverpool, Belfast, Edinburgh, and London. More than 1,000 members of the venue team worked tirelessly over a fortnight to bring the event to life. Suppliers that worked on the event included Emmaus Global, Event Command, G4S, FGH Security, CleanEvent Services, FTS Event Power, SES Group, UK Rigging, Gallowglass, Mersey Medical Services, EMFS Group, Crexcell, Tracsis Events, Six Degrees and National Merchandise.

LINKEDIN POST OF THE MONTH

Mike Frost, founder of Expocast I’ve heard it said that “the best candidates aren’t actively looking for a job”. It’s nonsense. The best candidate could have gone through redundancy, they could have been mis-sold a job, they could be returning from parental leave, they could have relocated, and so on.

There are many reasons why the best candidate for your vacancy might be actively looking for the right opportunity, so this scepticism of immediately available people needs to be dropped.

Recruitment is the art of attraction and assessment. Just because someone is easier to attract, they should still receive the same thoroughness of assessment. Sometimes the best candidate isn’t looking, but don’t let that perceived scarcity, that feeling of wanting what you can’t have, affect the assessment process.

NEWS IN BRIEF

The Purple Guide has updated guidance on air displays and advice on protests and protestors has been added to the Working with Police Chapter

From March 18-19, 2025, the UK Crowd Management Association will host a Safer Crowds, Safer Venues Conference in Middlesbrough.

Decordia has launched a Carbon Literacy Course, designed to offer advice on how events can further reduce their carbon emissions.

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Beautiful Things singer Benson Boone was suspended in the air, playing a piano, at the MTV EMAs, before being lowered to the ground. Boone

Boys, Teddy Swims,

Rhymes at

Corrie Ince is the new vice chair of the Association of Show and Agricultural Organisations.

Sleek has appointed Steve AustenBrown as creative director.

Mark Ring has joined Informa Markets as group director of energy events.

Media 10.

Image: © Anthony Devlin/Getty Images/Paramount

Tender time

Looking for new business?

Discover the latest event tenders up for grabs and news of contract wins

The Royal Hospital Chelsea Appeal requires marquees, furniture and toilets. The deadline for this tender is 10am on December 6. Email david.williams@chelsea-pensioners.org.uk

Imperial War Museums has issued a tender, worth up to £500,000, for marquees. Email blmconsultingltd@gmail.com– the deadline is 12pm on December 20.

Manchester City Council is inviting experienced operators to tender for the design, delivery, operation, and management of the Winter Lights Festival. The deadline is 11am on December 20. Email joshua.ward@manchester.gov.uk

SpaceandPeople has won an exclusive five-year contract with Network Rail to manage exhibitions, events, experiential, promotions and sampling at 19 train stations nationwide.

ACC Liverpool Group requires event paramedic and first aid services. This tender is worth more than £197,000. The deadline is 12pm on December 9. Email kirstie.howarth-smith@accliverpool.com

North East Lincolnshire Council is looking for event and festival services support for Festival of the Sea. The deadline is 1.59pm on December 11. Email sarah.smith@nelincs.gov.uk

Durham County Council has issued a tender for festival/events evaluation. The deadline is 12pm on December 2. Interested? Email guy.aynsley@durham.gov.uk

University of Exeter has issued an event services tender, which is divided into lots: Security, medical cover, marquees, venue dressing, furniture and equipment hire. The deadline is January 3. Email Leanne Le Moucheux – L.A.Le-Moucheux@exeter.ac.uk

Build your imagination

Battersea Power Station was transformed into a Factory of Creativity by Lego and HelloCharlie

Lego Group unveiled an awe-inspiring projection at Battersea Power Station last month as part of its Play is Your Superpower campaign. The iconic London landmark’s 50 metre-high chimneys and river-facing façade were transformed into a “Factory of Creativity”, with an animated artwork bringing the building’s facade to life.

Lego Group partnered with the visual wizards at HelloCharlie to create a colourful spectacle celebrating the power of

imagination and how a child could see a creative factory running.

A Minifigure factory was central to the narrative, which also featured a giant Lego Vortex that whirled around the chimneys. As Lego Minifigures were assembled, they were momentarily held on a spring-loaded platform before being catapulted up the chimneys and into the world, symbolising the journey of a simple idea into a tangible creation.

FACTORY OF CREATIVITY

Images: Mischief PR

EVENT BUYERS LIVE

All images: Plaster Creative Communications

The place to…

Event Buyers Live 2024 was described as the place to do high-level business and engage in rich, in-depth conversations. Discover why after ten years, EBL is still the only industry event to attend and check out #EBL24 in pictures…

aluable. Friendly. Incredible. Engaging. Insightful. In depth. Welcoming. These are just some of the words used by events professionals to describe their experience of this year’s Event Buyers Live (EBL), held from November 11-13.

The hosted buyer event, which took place at Carden Park Hotel, Chester, was a monumental success, with all attendees – organisers, suppliers, speakers, and ambassadors – sharing their appreciation for the opportunity to have candid conversations about procurement and take part in insightful sessions that allowed people to off-load and share information.

UNIQUE CONNECTIONS

As the sun shone on the Cheshire estate for the tenth-anniversary edition of EBL, guests chatted and laughed alongside each other in an environment conducive to doing business. In fact, statistics from Blendology – EBL’s sustainable and tech-driven badging supplier – show that more than 5,631 unique connections were made, an increase of 27 per cent when compared to 2023.

“We know that event planning is one of the most stressful professions there is,” said Neil Fagg, co-founder of EBL. “This was talked about during the event when Randel Bryan [MD of SXSW Europe] took to the stage.

“As Randel commented, event professionals bounce from event to event and site to site and often have little time to think about life or their next project. They are in the moment and focused on the task in front of them. So when guests take the time and make a special effort to tell you that all your hard work has been so valuable, you can’t help but smile.”

Fagg continued: “Every year, when we close the doors on EBL and wave goodbye to the last guest, we make a promise to build on the event and will continue to do so. The feedback we have received in the first few hours after the event has been humbling so I can safely say that we will act on the advice and make the tweaks in preparation for #EBL25.”

IN-DEPTH CONVERSATIONS

Adam Lockton, national event manager at Cancer Research UK, attended EBL for the first time. He said: “Having attended EBL for the first time this year on behalf of Cancer Research UK, I was so impressed with the concept, the organisation, and the various formats that were used throughout the

event to allow for some really rich and indepth conversations. This will undoubtedly help Cancer Research UK become more professional, and more efficient in the way we operate and deliver our events in the future. This will ultimately benefit our supporters and help us raise more vital funds for Cancer Research UK.”

Like Lockton, Gregor Lumsden, senior operations director at Ryder Cup, was also a first-time attendee. He said of the event: “EBL is a fantastic platform to meet with a range of new suppliers. The event is set up to offer fantastic formal and informal opportunities to engage with others in the industry.”

BETTER THAN A TRADESHOW

Event Buyers Live 2024 consisted of more than 548 pre-arranged supplier meetings, 19 content sessions, one Fireside Chat, a Silent Yoga session, a drone show, three NetWalks, and extensive networking opportunities.

Events professionals from SJM Concerts, LS Events, U-Live, Marble London, Strata, National Eisteddfod, SailGP, Festival Republic, Human Race/ASO-UK, We Are The Fair, Live Nation, Judgeday, Boomtown, Truck Festival, CarFest, Futuresound, The Football Association, Royal Highland Show, Heart Productions, OBE London, Goose Live Events, Hay Festival, Extreme E, APL Event, Ascot Racecourse and Wasserman attended the respected event, which facilitates prearranged one-on-one meetings between organisers and suppliers. It gives events professionals the chance to sit down with each other and discuss project and procurement requirements.

Kirsty Swinford-Smith, trustee at the UK Pride Organisers Network, attended the hosted buyer event for the first time in 2024. She said: “It was my first time attending and although I was nervous and not used to networking of this kind, I was made very welcome and put at ease by the EBL team and ambassadors. I have made a lot of amazing connections and am looking forward to the conversations that will follow.”

Paul Rooney, production director at Slammin Events, agreed. He commented: “EBL was a great experience. It was so much better than the standard tradeshow arrangement. Having bespoke meetings arranged works for both the supplier and the purchaser. Plus, the networking and information sharing was valuable.”

Suzanne Johnson, site manager at LS Events, praised the event for being “well thought out and planned” and described the event as “the best supplier event of the year”.

Similarly, Suzi Cumberland, director of Taurus Events, called EBL an “exceptional experience”. She said: “The event provided a perfect blend of insightful sessions, invaluable networking opportunities, and a welcoming atmosphere. I loved the ability to connect with industry professionals and exchange ideas that will undoubtedly benefit Taurus Events both in the near and immediate future and I left feeling inspired, informed, and excited for future collaborations.”

HIGH-LEVEL BUSINESS

Colin Lockwood, sales manager at Trojan Security, was just one of the many suppliers supporting the event. He said of his event experience: “Trojan Security had the privilege of attending Event Buyers Live 2024, and we are still buzzing with excitement. The event was nothing short of fantastic. From the moment we arrived, it was clear that this year’s event was going to be something special.

“The conversations we had were insightful, engaging, and often left us with fresh ideas and inspiration. The event provided the perfect environment for networking, and we walked away with valuable relationships that we know will benefit Trojan Security in the months to come.”

Again, Nick Reeves, event major account manager at GAP Group, concurred. He commented: “EBL brings event professionals together at the right time, in the right place, to do high-level business. Every single team member delivering Event Buyers Live is a pleasure to engage with and an absolute credit to themselves and the event. I have made connections that will bear fruit for GAP today, tomorrow and in the future.”

FORGING NEW RELATIONSHIPS

This year’s event featured several content sessions designed to encourage open conversation and the sharing of best practices. John Rostron, CEO of the Association of Independent Festivals (AIF) chaired EBL’s only panel session that addressed one of the big topics of 2024: Event cancellations and postponements. He said of the event: “This was my second time at Event Buyers Live and it dazzled as a place for select organisers and suppliers to come together to do deals, do dinner and to delight in the social side of doing business. EBL delivers so well. It’s hard to head off and wait a whole year before it comes back around.”

Clare Goodchild, director of Organise Chaos and an EBL ambassador, agreed: “EBL delivered its tenth birthday with a bang! All levels of the production had increased, from the evening entertainment to the amazing panels and workshops. But more importantly, the suppliers and the networking opportunities seem to have reached a new level. Over the years, we have met so many new and interesting suppliers that we still use to this day, but now the hosted buyer selection is so good that we are also meeting new production partners, new clients, and forging new relationships to make improvements in the industry as a whole. It’s the most useful three days of the networking calendar.”

THANK YOU

This year, like 2023, has not been without its challenges; rising costs and extreme weather continue to make life difficult for event professionals, and there have been a series of common obstacles that both organisers and suppliers have had to navigate.

Fagg commented: “Event Buyers Live 2024 provided a safe environment for our guests to

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have so many conversations about how they navigate those challenges and move forward. It’s because of our guests’ willingness to share their experiences, needs, and thoughts that have helped turn EBL into what it is. We have always said that it is the place to do business, the place to network, and the place to learn but it’s also the place to be inspired, the place to plan, and the place to listen.”

Daniel Bentley, account director at Verve Live Agency, concurred. He said: “The event was amazing from start to finish. Unsurprisingly, given it was an event industry event, it was run really well and the pre-event communication was brilliant. I found it really useful and it was a pleasure to be in the room with so many industry experts. There aren’t enough events for the event industry and more should follow suit!”

Fagg concluded: “EBL was born out of a love for our industry so to hear that contracts

have already been awarded, more meetings are in the diary and that people have had big chats about collaboration, is music to my ears.

“We wanted the tenth anniversary of EBL to be the best yet, so thank you to everyone that attended and supported our team, and who made it so special. From our speakers, our ambassadors, our sponsors and event partners, everyone played their part and delivered an amazing showcase for our amazing industry Roll on 2025!”

•Special thanks to 2CL, Swift MRP, Endigo Event Communications, Bridge Creative, Blendology, Visions, Carden Park, Osborne Studios, Tysers, Style Branding, RedBox Events, Delegate Select, FlightShows, AIF, Piing, Instant Marquees, EventWell, NOQ, onboard.earth, Event Photography Awards, Plaster Creative Communications and Mental Health UK.

Monster effort

Halloween events continue to grow in popularity. Lincoln BIG, RG Live and CityCo discuss event developments and how they are achieving spooktacular success

n October 24, ten dancing skeletons, accompanied by unicyclists and stilt walkers, walked through the streets of Lincoln. Strolling Bones, a site-adaptive show from Walk the Plank, returned to the historic city following a hugely positive first outing in 2023.

Contracted by Lincoln BIG, the city’s business improvement group, Walk the Plank’s Strolling Bones skeleton parade attracted residents and visitors to the city centre during the half-term holidays, increasing dwell time in the area and footfall for local businesses. Lee Roberts, head of operations at Lincoln BIG, explained: “Last year, we organised our biggest Halloween event yet, but this year’s edition of The Big Spook was stupidly popular.

“We incorporated the city council’s inflatable monster installation [by Designs in Air] into our Halloween programme so that we could be more coordinated in

our approach and delivered it under one big umbrella.”

Lincoln BIG opted to work with Walk the Plank after seeing how the arts organisation had worked with other cities, specifically engaging communities with outdoor performances. “There was clearly an appetite for this type of event,” Roberts continued. “When you do an event, especially something relatively new to an area, you always wonder how it’s going to go down. But, last year, the parade went through the city at three different times of the day. I walked through the crowds, unbranded, and I could hear people saying that it was the best thing they’d ever seen. Seeing families enjoying themselves reaffirmed that we had something.”

POSITIVE SIGN

Last year’s edition of The Big Spook was dogged by rain, but still, people turned out.

It was the positive sign that Roberts and his team needed to contract Walk the Plank for 2024. Roberts added: “Last year, I don’t think we marketed or pushed the event enough. We didn’t have a bank of images to show Strolling Bones in our location, but we got some really good photos that we were able to use to promote this year’s parade.

“In terms of operations, we learned a lot about using public spaces and road closures so that we didn’t negatively impact businesses. The areas we use are not pedestrianised areas. This year, we took that into consideration, whereas in the past, we would have shut the road all day.”

BIG THUMBS UP

On November 25, Roberts and his team discover if levy-paying businesses have voted for Lincoln BIG to continue its work as a business improvement district. If 50 per cent of businesses give Lincoln BIG a thumbs up,

THE BIG SPOOK

Images: © Geraint Lewis/Carl Sukonik

it will get funding for another five years. This will mean five more years of creating events that draw people into the city.

“I want to keep working with Walk the Plank,” Roberts explained further. “But do we do Strolling Bones again? Do we introduce a monster procession, do we extend the parades to run over two days and use another area of the city, or do we introduce workshops? If we are successful on November 25, we have to sit down and look at the different options. It’s definitely something I want to keep, but I don’t want our event to become stale.”

One thing’s for sure. Roberts and his team wish to develop the city’s Halloween programme. He would like to potentially get more city partners involved with The Big Spook, varying the programme to incorporate different experiences that engage different demographics and who use the city differently. Ultimately putting

the historic city on the map and appealing to diverse audiences.

INCREASED FOOTFALL

This year, Manchester City Centre Business Improvement District (BID) also worked with Walk the Plank, Exclusec (security), BMS Medics (medical cover) and Niche Events Hire (barriers) on its Halloween event, Halloween in the City.

The event featured the Monsters Rock! Party Procession and a MCR Monsters inflatable art trail. Halloween in the City attracted more than 250,000 visitors over the weekend, a massive 30 per cent lift in footfall compared to the previous weekend.

It’s the fourth year that CityCo, a membership organisation that represents businesses in the city, has welcomed the Monsters Rock! Party Procession. But this year, visitors were met by a new addition, an eight-metre-long creature called The Leech,

The Leech wormed its way through the city, tamed by ringmaster Grimm Rita and was also flanked by its spooky skeleton friends.

Caitlin Holme, events producer at CityCo, said: “We discovered many repeat attendees at the Monsters Rock! Party Procession, so we decided to refresh the performance for 2024. Working with Walk the Plank, we updated the music performed by the monstrous brass band and introduced new choreography. While changing the music might seem minor, it’s a crucial element that ties the performance together, influencing choreography and audience connection.”

This year, the CityCo team was reminded that producing events that are in the public realm present different sets of challenges year on year. Holme explained: “This year, a challenge we faced was having to move the start and end point of the performance. Each year the performance starts and ends

a monster creation from Walk the Plank.

WALK THE PLANK IN ACTION

THE LEECH

at an empty unit, the unit is used as a green room, storage facility and needs to be big enough to host a number of performers and costumes. The day before the first procession was due to start, we found out the unit could no longer be used and we had to find a new space. Finding a new space meant we had to also change the route, the time and day in which we could load in, the length of the performance, communicate this with our production and marketing team, and adjust the map that had been released to the public.

“One of the most frequent questions from visitors is what time does the procession start, and where is the best place to see the procession. We were able to resolve this quickly thanks to the flexibility of Manchester Arndale, the performers and production team at Walk the Plank and Manchester BID’s production and marketing team all working together.

“It’s a great reminder of the importance of the production team’s deep understanding of city centre spaces and strong relationships with local businesses. These connections ensure we’re prepared to handle last-minute changes.”

BALANCING ACT

According to Statista, Halloween is proving popular with UK residents. For example, since 2013, the estimated UK consumer spend on Halloween products has quadrupled and in 2024, the figure sat at £775 million. What’s more, the holiday is now the third largest after Christmas and Easter in terms of consumer spend.

Matthew Findlay, director of live experiences at RG Live, leads the team behind a growing portfolio of Halloweenthemed illuminated trails.

Since starting with one Halloween trail four years ago, RG Live now promotes four events (Moors Valley is a new location for 2024), each one allowing visitors to discover ghostly undertakings and spooky goings on. “The Christmas market has become ever so saturated over the years, and the UK appetite for Halloween has increased,” Findlay explained. “Launching the Halloween trails just felt like the natural next step of diversification, but still, during the year when we have enough darkness for the lighting aspects of the trail.”

Findlay said that RG Live’s Halloween trails differ from its Christmas events. The composition of the creative elements is different and the Halloween routes tend to be slightly shorter in length, depending on the site and natural path network available.

Findlay continued: “The family-friendly market is our primary focus. But I have to say every family is so different and every child is so different, that the balancing act of how spooky or scary one should be is hard.

“We’re trying to incorporate something for everyone, so we use actors and performers who can tailor what they’re doing at that moment in time based on the audience in front of them.”

GAP IN THE MARKET

For some years, Halloween events in the UK – when compared to the US and Canada – have been behind the curve in terms of

public interest. However, over time, it has become more obvious to Findlay and the RG Live team that there’s more of an appetite for Halloween-based events.

Findlay said that there was “a nice little gap in the market” that differed from traditional fright nights, which are not family-focused. He added: “We’re lucky to have partners that want to get into the space with us, and off the back of this year, we’re keen to try and operate a few more Halloween trails with new partners and in new parts of the UK.”

But what does Findlay consider an ideal venue to look like? He commented: “In terms of a venue, we’re looking for something a little bit different. We’re not necessarily looking for the length that we tend to look for on one of our Christmas light trails. Therefore, this can open up opportunities to work with slightly smaller properties.

“Halloween certainly lends itself to what I call nice little pockets and the bends and turns that come from a natural pathway. This also gives us that natural element of surprise,” he added.

“Our venue partners are always open during the day to visitors too, so we want nooks and crannies that we can play with so we don’t have to load in unnecessary infrastructure.”

Findlay concluded: “We’ve certainly got some interesting conversations on the go about the potential of where we can do Halloween next, some with existing partners and some with new organisations, and we hope to be able to share more news in the new year.”

HALLOWEEN AT KEW

Pot of gold

Arts by the Sea recently demonstrated that not even a storm can get in the way of a festival finale

THE HONEY POT

All images: Plaster/Paul Box

Bad weather forced the organiser of Arts by the Sea to reschedule the festival’s finale when it took place at the end of September. The free-to-attend festival was set to conclude its celebration of art, culture and community with a burn of the festival’s one-of-a-kind installation –created by Pyrite Creative and Shambala. Called The Honey Pot, the art piece, situated on Bournemouth Beach, was to be set alight on September 29 at 8pm. However, stormy conditions meant the festival pinnacle was moved to September 28 out of safety concerns.

Thanks to the determination and hard work of Arts by the Sea’s operations and safety team, The Honey Pot did go up in flames, watched by happy crowds.

According to Tom Byrnes, creative director at Arts by the Sea, the festival finale burn is more than a visual spectacle. It symbolises the tradition of fireside storytelling, where communities gather to share stories and mark the changing of the seasons.

Arts by the Sea, which was founded by Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council (BCP) Council, receives regular funding from Arts Council England as a National Portfolio Organisation.

From 2023-26, BCP Council will receive more than £150,000 per year to increase opportunities and improve access to creativity and culture in the region, ensuring creative events like Arts by the Sea take place – regardless of the weather – for residents and tourists to enjoy.

A show of two halves

CORTEO

From January 9, Cirque du Soleil will enchant audiences at the Royal Albert Hall with Corteo, a production that will split the famous hall in two. Here, Gerard Edwards-Webb, Cirque du Soleil’s technical director, reveals all

Images: © Johan Persson/Cirque du Soleil

or 29 years, Cirque du Soleil has brought its jaw-dropping productions to London’s Royal Albert Hall, winning over audiences with its mesmerising spectacles that leave everyone flabbergasted. This year’s production is set to be no different.

Corteo, which means cortege in Italian, will take over the iconic venue from January 9, but in a Cirque du Soleil first, a central stage will divide the venue from the Royal Albert Hall’s organ in a straight line to the door six entrance. Each half of the audience will face the other half, giving everyone present a unique perspective, performers included.

RECONFIGURED

Working jointly with the Royal Albert Hall

and following consultation with seat holders, Cirque du Soleil will reconfigure the venue to accommodate the new layout. The show and stage design is such that it will consume some seats owned by members (the seat holders). With careful collaboration and discussions with the hall, they are being reseated for the entire run of the show, and whilst many arena seats will be unusable, the Cirque du Soleil team has countered that by putting a lot of “choir” seats on sale. This will enable the production team to create an atmosphere like never seen before in Cirque du Soleil shows.

COMMERCIALLY VIABLE

According to Gerard Edwards-Webb, Cirque du Soleil’s technical director,

GERARD EDWARDS-WEBB (he/him)

Corteo is one of the heaviest shows that Cirque du Soleil has brought to the city. Therefore, it has required a lot of remodelling to enable Corteo – designed originally for a big top – to envelop one of London’s most iconic venues.

For example, it is suspending 67 tonnes from the grid, which is equal to the weight of 11 elephants hanging from the ceiling. Set elements such as the “Patience” – a spreader grid between the hall’s “mushrooms” and actual show grid – weigh 27 tonnes and are positioned 12.5 metres above the ground whilst two enormous baroque-style “Roll Drop” curtains (58 metres wide and 12 metres high) are among the most striking scenic elements in the show.

“We’re going to put 67 tonnes in the roof and another 65 tonnes on the deck,” Edwards-Webb tells StandOut. “The original big top production was too heavy, and the nature of the way it was built, with a curve to fit inside a big top roof, when we modelled that, it was clear that it wasn’t going to be commercially viable. It was going to kill far too many seats, and it wasn’t supportable. We weren’t even able to get the pieces in the venue; some of them were too big.”

He continues: “When we were putting Kurios in the Royal Albert Hall in 2023, that particular show presented some issues in terms of the way it had to go in the venue. So we elected to use the hall’s upper exhibition floor, which basically covers the entire arena floor and most of the stalls, only leaving four rows of stalls exposed at the top. We put Kurios in, and while I was sat there in the stalls, you know, watching the guys going at it, it occurred to me that with the higher exhibition floor, potentially Corteo, which is a traverse show, would actually fit in the room.

“Once we finished Kurios, I went back to Montreal, and we remodelled Corteo, and then it became apparent it would physically fit. We probably would get enough sightlines and enough viable seats to make it commercially work. And so here we are.”

CONSTANTLY EVOLVING

Not only will Corteo split the Royal Albert Hall audience in two, but it will also feature two backstage areas, one running from door six to the north door, which would normally be the venue’s principal entrance. These backstage areas will be draped from the mushrooms to the floor so that no audience member can see the madness behind the magic.

“The show is constantly evolving,” Edwards-Webb adds. “Obviously, it takes us around a year of project work, drafting, engineering studies, artistic liaison, so on and so forth and then we come to put it in, and it takes around 72 hours to load in. It’s militarily scheduled. It is absolutely crucial that we stay on track, and it takes an army of people to do it.”

AN ARMY OF EXPERTS

Gallowglass, Blackout, Neg Earth, Blackfriars, Eat to the Beat, Fly by Night, and Rigging Team have all been contracted by Cirque du Soleil to provide equipment and services to the live event. Furthermore, a troupe comprised of more than 117 members, including 53 artists and 34 technicians, run the show, which is transported in 500 road cases loaded into 24 trucks.

“When we put a show in here, we don’t think of it in terms of, we’re on tour. We think of it in terms of, we’re going into a theatre. It’s possibly the most theatrical version of the show that we can do, so we very much want to make sure that it fits the room and that it looks the best it can be for the audience.”

CREATE INTRIGUE

Cirque du Soleil invests a significant amount of money in every show to ensure it gives all ticketholders the best experience. It’s the audience’s reaction that Edwards-Webb is most looking forward to. Especially the reaction from audience members who are repeat Cirque du Soleil fans and customers.

“When you’re in a Cirque du Soleil show, even in a 270-degree thrust configuration, and the audience is watching the show, they’re not really conscious of the other members of the audience on the other side of the room,” Edwards-Webb explains. “With Corteo, you tend to look at the show but then beyond it to the faces of the people opposite you and their reactions.”

Everyone involved in the show cannot wait to see what audiences have to say. Excitement is building and performers are carefully considering their reactions when so many more members of the audience will be closer to the action.

“It’s going to be so different, and that’s going to be a buzz,” concludes EdwardsWebb. “We’re very aware that by doing this [changing the venue layout] when you walk in, you’re not going to have the typical overall grandeur of the auditorium. Because you’re not going to have that view when you walk in, and you see the entire space. So, for newcomers to Cirque shows or newcomers to the Royal Albert Hall, hopefully, it will intrigue them to come back and see another show. For repeat fans and guests and patrons, I think they’re just going to be very, very surprised, and I think that it’s going to be very interesting to see.”

Corteo will be presented at the Royal Albert Hall from January 9, 2025.

Keeping the peace

Drones, protestors, facial recognition and more. Event organisers and security experts discuss how they are working together to make event sites safe and secure

At this year’s Bedford River Festival, Bedfordshire Police deployed facial recognition technology for the first time in a bid to locate the county’s most wanted offenders. Live Facial Recognition (LFR) technology was in operation in and around the surrounding area of the festival, which attracted more than 200,000 visitors.

The locations where LFR was deployed were marked with signage to inform the public that the technology was in use. The hope was that those who posed the greatest threat to the wider public would be caught.

It’s just one example of how technology is used at large-scale and public events to ensure the safety and security of eventgoers and the general public.

Steve Coleman, managing director of ESM Operations, which recently provided event security services to the World Defence Show and the F1 concerts in Saudi Arabia, and is preparing for MDLBeast’s upcoming Soundstorm event, says that technology is improving how ESM Operations operates,

manages and communicates with its customers and will continue to improve general standards within the industry.

Stephen Renouard, operations manager at Burghley Horse Trials, concurred. For example, at Burghley Horse Trials 2024, the organising team contracted WH Management Group (WHMG) to deliver event security services and trialled a drone prevention system called ZoneAware. The system aims to detect drones overflying the site that have the potential to compromise security. This was in addition to a “no-fly” zone, which has been in place for several years.

ACT ACCORDINGLY

According to Coleman, there are still many challenges being faced by the industry in terms of supply vs demand and training standards, which is why ESM Operations is soon to roll out new Level 1 to Level 5 career development programmes. But now there are also new considerations around Martyn’s Law, he commented.

Burghley Horse Trials is currently looking at security plans for 2025, including Martyn’s Law and improving hostile vehicle mitigation facilities, working closely with WHMG to ensure it can act accordingly and appropriately.

TWEAKED PLANS

WHMG provides event security services to Henley Festival alongside Newman Event Services. In terms of security, the five-day music festival, held annually in Henley-onThames, has a multi-agency deployment with perimeter, access and 24-hour site security, rapid response and licensing enforcement specialists and dedicated nightclub security teams, which manage the late-night venues.

John Harris, Henley Festival’s live event director, told StandOut that the festival tweaked its security operation this year, reassigning roles within security companies and implementing a pre-authorised traffic control with logging software for deliveries and collections during the build and break.

Currently, Harris and his team are closely following developments in legislation to enable them to protect all stakeholders in and around the Henley Festival site.

CUSTOMER FEEDBACK

Yet, Henley Festival is not the only event to look at its security plans. Vision Nine, the organiser of Boardmasters, has revealed a raft of changes to the 2025 festival. It has been working hard behind the scenes to “reflect and review”, listening to customer feedback following the 2024 event.

Event developments for 2025 include a 20 per cent increase in security, deployed to crowd and behaviour management positions, 25 additional entry search lanes, enabling deeper searches, double the number of elevated watchtower locations with a 24-hour security presence, and a 50 per cent increase in high visibility security patrols, day and night.

Boardmasters – now led by new festival director Robert Spring – wants to ensure the 2025 event experience is “nothing short of amazing” and wishes to introduce the measures which will increase efficiencies and change how the site operates.

GUIDANCE

Savvy organisers will be aware of how important it is to review everyone’s roles and responsibilities on-site to build resilience and develop best practices. Recently, the Emergency Planning College (EPC) has revealed it is working with several key regulatory, emergency services and government stakeholders to review Safety Advisory Group (SAG) guidance. The hope is that updated SAG Guidance would make SAGS more consistent and provide a standard for SAGs within local authorities. But it’s not the only guidance change that event professionals need to be aware of.

PROTEST RISK

Oliver Gardiner, managing director of Vespasian Security and vice chair of the UK Crowd Management Association, says police nervousness about new legal precedent being set in court is leading to changes in how the police are willing to deal with protesters at events. The challenge is around the police’s interpretation of any law, which will have potentially significant effects on how security teams may need to start handling protests.

Gardiner explained: “If you are a private event organiser and you’ve hired land and you have an alcohol license, you can draw a big red line around that site. I always use the analogy of it is your front room. It’s your private land. If someone comes in, you’ve got the right to refuse admission, and you’ve got the right to ask them to leave. But if you are organising a remembrance event in an open area for example, and you haven’t got a fence around it, and someone chooses to protest, the police have an obligation under the Human Rights Act to allow protest.

“Now, if you are a local city council or a local parish council, you are a unitary authority, you have to enable that. Even if

WITH PROTESTORS

you put a red line around it, you’re in a local park, and you’re putting on a nice event day, and suddenly someone wants to protest on stage or in front of a stage, your SIA door supervisors that you’ve hired in, they’re acting on behalf of you. If you remove them, the argument is, at the moment, you’re breaching those human rights because you are operating on behalf of that council authority. So it’s better for that ground/park to be hired by a private event organiser to produce an event and not deliver the event directly for the council.”

Gardiner is advising organisers to understand explicitly what their protest risk is, what might be targeted and where they can facilitate protest.

At this year’s Burghley Horse Trials, the organising team instigated a new no-vehicle zone, which required a “robust management protocol”. WHMG assisted Renouard by supplementing its mobile security resource on event days to prevent and/or manage protests from groups that target sporting events.

Renouard explained: “There were a number of minor but critically important changes to our security plan in 2024. These included the supplementation of our overnight security plan with WHMG canine patrols during both the build-up phase and live event. This followed a number of overnight incidents in 2023. Given the nature of our site, this is considered to be the most effective means of managing any overnight incursions.”

Renouard continued: “It is clear that we need to be vigilant of the ever-increasing range of incidents that are potential threats to major events and ensure our monitoring and control of such eventualities is robust and

included in the planning for the event. This includes protests, attacks using vehicles and now airborne drones.”

COSTS

Again, Gardiner warns that organisers need to be clear on what can and can’t be done. You cannot show preferential treatment to one protest group. For example, if an environmental group such as Greenpeace wishes to protest, you must facilitate that protest. Similarly, if a far-right group turns up to protest, you need to facilitate that as well. If not, they could sue you for unfair treatment.

Gardiner commented: “As an organiser, you must understand what protest groups you are most vulnerable to. This will inform you about their possible focus and resulting tactics. Now you could be delivering a horse racing, motorsport or athletics event and be vulnerable to a myriad of different groups. From animal rights to climate groups or even organisations who specifically target some of your sponsors. Pressure relating to sponsors has already presented challenges across live events in recent years. Speaking to those sponsors and understanding how they view their own protest risk is vital to planning for what could prove to be disruptive and costly incidents later.

“Unfortunately, organisers are being put in a position where they’re going to end up absorbing lots of money and cost.

“If people want to protest and it becomes a TikTok thing to turn up and be a bit contrarian, you’re going to need to staff it. Again, this will squeeze clients and take organisers away from just making fabulous events safe.”

DEALING

Diversity and inclusion: The future of event crewing

Crewsaders has tripled the number of female crew members to meet a growing demand for more diverse crews. Here, the company discusses why diversity is key to future business strategy

Today’s demand for top-tier event teams is not just soaring; it’s evolving. According to a recent industry report, diversity is a crucial criterion for event organisers when selecting suppliers. Studies show that diverse teams contribute to enhanced decision-making, greater adaptability, and higher client satisfaction, making diversity a vital asset in event success. This shift signifies that diversity is no longer seen as a “nice-to-have” but as a key value that enriches the quality and impact of events.

Crewsaders, the thriving premium event crewing services company, says its clients are increasingly seeking professionals who excel in managing large and complex events and bringing fresh perspectives and innovative solutions to the table.

Hayley Berryman, executive director of Crewsaders, speaks of a transformative shift in recent client demand for more diverse crew teams. She said: “Without a doubt, we have seen a meaningful shift in demand, specifically amongst retail and fashion clients as well as big aspirational brands.

“Crewsaders has always advocated for inclusivity across our workspaces, and we are focused on diversifying our workforce to meet emerging client needs. This is proving to be a significant draw in our business strategy and will continue into 2025. We hope to retain and attract clients who want crews to reflect their brand and customer base.”

FEMALE CREW MEMBERS

Calum McConnachie, operations director at Crewsaders, concurs. He added: “The increasing demand for female crew hands on-site and across project teams has been a real eye-opener. Post-pandemic strategy has seen our business employ and retain more than triple our female crew numbers across 15 years in live events.”

One such trailblazer is London-based Shae Brady, 24, who has already been promoted four times despite only joining Crewsaders at the start of the year. She said: “The first thing people often comment on is that I’m a woman, and there’s always a moment where I feel I have to prove myself.”

Despite these challenges, Brady thrives on variety, adaptability and the validation she receives from those around her. She continued: “Being a great crew person is being a team player, and I have a great team around me. Being reliable, adaptable and approachable is also important, as is having strong communication skills and a positive attitude. But being a hard worker and getting stuck in probably tops the list.”

POWER OF DIVERSITY

Whether Brady is setting up for London Fashion Week or working backstage at a high-profile Google event, she consistently exceeds client expectations by bringing an exemplary attitude and a spirited dynamic to the event experience.

Her presence on-site not only aligns with female-focused brands but also helps femaleled organisations feel represented and valued. Plus, her commitment to excellence and ability to adapt to any situation make her an invaluable asset to the Crewsaders team.

Berryman concluded: “Shae’s story is a testament to the power of diversity in the workplace and how it can lead to exceptional outcomes for clients.

“Partnering with Crewsaders means choosing a team committed to excellence, adaptability and representation in action, so if you would like to talk with the team about how our expert crew teams can reflect your audience and values, get in touch.”

To learn more or to make a booking today, email bookings@crewsaders.com

SHAE BRADY ( she / her )

•

Say hello to new ideas

StandOut reports on all the products, services and guidance that launched at

Thousands of event organisers poured through the doors at Newbury Showground for the 2024 edition of The Showman’s Show (October 23-24) to discover new products, find new ideas and make new contacts.

But if you didn’t manage to make it to the exhibition for the outdoor events industry, StandOut purposely walked up and down the aisles, basking in the autumn sunshine, to find a whole heap of products that we think you might find useful.

From a Bamboo Tipi from Tent Hub to a new sleeper cabin from Site Sleep, there was a myriad of infrastructure on-site, all new to the market and set to transform event and festival sites across the UK.

PRACTICAL AND COMFORTABLE

Site Event introduced Site Sleep, a new division that provides eco-friendly sleeper cabins. Tailored for the unique demands of event crews, Site Sleep’s sleeper cabins are designed to offer a practical, sustainable, and comfortable on-site accommodation solution.

But what’s great about these units is that they not only feature comfortable beds and a microwave, kettle and fridge, but they also feature a private bathroom, incorporating sustainable waste management.

Each unit has vacuum toilet pans with a one-litre fresh water flush system, which reduces waste water. Additionally, Site Sleep has split the black and grey waste to allow for the shower waste to be disposed of into a soakaway. This minimises wastewater and reduces tanker movements, which contributes to both environmental sustainability and cost savings.

POWER BOOST

Boss Cabins launched a towable toilet block that offers fresh-water toilet facilities in a solar-powered cabin. Plus, its sister company SolGen demonstrated a new design hybrid generator with a huge bifacial solar array, which has patented built-in technology that enables it to track the sun.

SolGen’s Edward Linley, managing director, believes that the generator is suited towards powering welfare cabins and production villages or even small food villages but can also provide an additional power boost if needed.

FOCAL POINT

Tent Hub showcased several structures, including a large dome, measuring 30 metres in diameter, a Lazy Six, a six-man hammock tent, measuring 7m x 7m, new colour options

for its Burning Man stretch tent, and a Bamboo Tipi, which is nine metres high and takes up only 5m x 5m on an event footprint.

Specifically, the Bamboo Tipi is designed to be used as a focal point at an event or festival and whilst it is currently available to purchase, it might enter Tent Hub’s rental fleet very soon.

NEW STRUCTURES

Tent Hub’s new Bamboo Tipi was not the only new structure to be launched at The Showman’s Show. Stretch and Tents showcased a customised trussed stretch tent, which is available in up to a 12-metre span, and Alternative Stretch Tents and TentStyle introduced the Arachnid Stretch Tent. At the show, Airclad showcased Xiosk, a quick, deployable retail pod that is ideal for small spaces. Originally designed to be

specifically used in F1 environments, Xiosk is perfectly suited for tight spaces and is great for merchandise units, small information points or selling programmes.

It can be dropped into position with a forklift, can be put up in ten minutes, it needs no ballast or additional ground fixings, and 48 units can be stacked on one truck when it’s packed down.

IN DEVELOPMENT

The show featured a myriad of new and returning exhibitors. ZND, the temporary fence panel and barrier supplier, demonstrated the latest DuraPanel, Peequal unveiled new designs and Expandasign displayed a new race arch that can used on start/finish lines.

Crowdguard demonstrated H-Stop, a surface-mounted hostile vehicle management (HVM) system that requires no fixtures or fittings. The HVM barrier can be wheeled into position virtually anywhere by a single operative. It has pneumatic tyres, which means the H-Stop can be wheeled over uneven surfaces, and once in position, the wheels can be locked to secure the barrier in place. It works by tipping a vehicle on contact, changing its trajectory from horizontal to vertical.

JCB showcased a new hydrogen internal combustion engine with a 60kVA battery and was present at the show to talk about how it has developed the engine using hydrogen as a fuel source. It recognises that the industry will need more than a 60kVA generator so

different sizes are in development because it believes this is the way that event sites of the future will be powered.

SUSTAINABILITY FOCUS

The Showman’s Show’s Green and Innovation Supplier Award returned this year. Recognising the sustainable solutions and positive changes event suppliers are making to their businesses, products and services, it’s a popular part of the show with industry professionals eager to discover who has won.

Now a popular fixture in the Sustainable Event Summit agenda, the Green and Innovation Supplier Award saw Instagrid, Boss Cabins and Geopura invited to deliver their Dragon’s Den style pitches having been selected as the three finalists. All three companies delivered impassioned presentations but Boss Cabins was declared the winner with its GenFree welfare cabins.

The Sustainable Event Summit returned to The Showman’s Show for the ninth year. Jon Davies, CEO of Levy UK, set the tone and framed the important role suppliers have to play in driving a more sustainable future.

For example, during one of the summit’s quickfire sessions, d&b solutions’ director Bryan Raven introduced SustainSymphony software, a free-to-access platform enabling organisers and suppliers to capture and measure their environmental, social, and governance data.

This illustrated Davies’ point perfectly. He highlighted that new products and service models require investment and that suppliers and organisers can and should work together if our industry wishes to achieve success.

•The Showman’s Show returns to Newbury Showground from October 22-23, 2025.

SUSTAINABLE EVENT SUMMIT

STRETCH AND TENTS

BAMBOO TIPI

XIOSK

•

•

•

•

• High efficiency heat exchangers

• Stainless steel frame on box girders with fork truck slots & lifting hooks

• Lockable door panels for control box and burner area with feed through glands for cable and fuel hoses

• Return air flanges are optional

• 120kw, 145kw, 200kw & 220kw models with options of 2 stage burner and 2 speed fan on the 200Kw & 220 Kw models

• IMAC 4000E model has a 2 stage burner & 2

The Showman’s Show

23-24 October 2024 | Newbury Showground

DCRS

Once again, DCRS enjoyed exhibiting at The Showman’s Show, connecting with new and familiar faces. We showcased our latest two-way radio technology, including the MOTOTRBO R2 and R7 Series, the full WAVE PTX Portfolio, and our range of hire equipment. 2024 has been an incredible year, and we look forward to what 2025 holds for DCRS and the outdoor events industry. Thank you to everyone who visited us! sales@dcrs.co.uk www.dcrs.co.uk

QDOS EVENT HIRE

Visitors to Qdos’ stand were able to view the company’s impressive 15-years delivering for prestigious events and gain an insight into its future as it showcased a host of new products that have been added to the range. These included the Plus Line, CTX modular buildings and next generation cabins. It also displayed a solar powered modular building as the addition of photovoltaic modules turn its 20’ x 8’ CTX and Plus Line units into cost-efficient and sustainable space solutions. www.qdoseventhire.co.uk

The Stage Bus is an event production company based in Birmingham, providing innovative solar powered mobile stages across the UK. Their quirky, vehicle-based stages are powered by the sun and their on-board batteries mean they can power events day and night. With full sound and lighting facilities and a sound engineer included, the reduced set-up times for our stages also make them some of the most cost-effective solutions available. www.thestagebus.com

Events Crew are Event Equipment

Specialists who support World Class events across the UK and Ireland. We offer Fencing, Barriers, Tower Lights, Transport, Logistics, Ground Protection and Site Support. We supply, transport and install for your event with our experienced team and our own fleet of bespoke vehicles. We understand the importance of time sensitive deliveries and installation, with great attention to detail. Let us know your needs for 2025. www.eventscrew.com info@eventscrew.com

SIMPLIWIFI

What a great show this year with 200+ visitors to our stand across the 2 days.

Hats off to Johnny and the crew at Showman’s Show for putting on yet another great event.

Our new stand layout really worked with lots of interest from all parts of the event production space.

Thank you to all those that visited this year, it was great to meet you and we look forward to working with you all in 2025 and getting your events #simpliconnected www.simpliwifi.agency

Showman’s Show was an invaluable experience for Arc International. It allowed us to showcase our products, connect with industry professionals, and gain insight into the latest trends in outdoor event management. The event provided excellent networking opportunities, and we were able to engage with many potential and existing clients directly. Overall, it was an excellent opportunity for networking, lead generation, and strengthening our brand presence in the market. 0207 977 7637 www.arc-int.co.uk

THE STAGE BUS

BRADSHAW EVENT VEHICLES

The Showman’s Show

23-24 October 2024 | Newbury Showground

ATTEND2IT

Attending the Showman’s Show once again proved invaluable. It’s always fantastic to reconnect with our existing clients and make new connections, sharing ideas and insights face-to-face. This event brings together suppliers who would otherwise be “ships passing in the night” or known only through emails, making it a unique chance to strengthen relationships and discover fresh opportunities within the industry. Looking forward to next year! 01763 877477 info@attend2it.co.uk

Davis Trackhire is the UK’s largest independent supplier of portable aluminium roadways and associated ground protection services, and a dedicated supplier to the outdoor events industry. Based in North Lanarkshire and The East Midlands we offer a professional, attentive and comprehensive service. Whether you require a backstage area for your festival or a ring road around your event site we have the skills, products and experience to handle your requirements. www.davistrackhire.com

FEWS

Fews are the leading provider of event marquees, temporary buildings, and structures in the UK providing turnkey solutions to a wide range of clientele focussing on: Health and Safety, Sustainability, An Unrivalled Product range.

We offer a stunning array of luxury marquees, corporate marquees and large marquee options, including exclusive products such as PremiumMax, Igloo and The Orangery. www.fewsmarquees.co.uk

SIERRA 1

Our first time at the Showman’s Show went really well. We met dozens of wonderful fellow professionals who were generous with their time and seemed genuinely interested in the services we offer. The event was run well, the facilities were fantastic and the event organisers even came to see us to touch base. We would definitely recommend the Show to others and we’re already looking forward to next year’s show. www.sierra1securitystewarding.co.uk

BUNKABIN LTD

Bunkabin, the leading UK supplier of portable accommodation, offers over 3,000 en-suite Sleeper units for Events, Education, Construction, Agriculture, and Defence. Our options range from cost-effective ‘Junior Sleepers’ to luxurious ‘Bespoke Sleepers’ with fullsize beds, heating, showers, and toilets. We also provide portable showers, toilets, and dining units. As a family-run business based in Oldham, we focus on excellent service and ensuring a smooth hiring experience for our customers. www.bunkabin.co.uk

WH Silverbacks offer stretch tents, truss structures, pagodas and other temporary structures, we aim to offer a solution that suits your requirements. With over 20 years’ experience in the events industry, we firmly believe in building genuine relationships with our clients before anything else, as together anything is possible. Covering the UK from sporting events to corporate experiences to outdoor dining solutions. We are passionate about turning ideas into reality. www.whsilverbacks.co.uk info@whsilverbacks.co.uk 01202 096957

DAVIS TRACKHIRE

TWO-WAY RADIO HIRE, SALES AND SERVICE

Email: sales@dcrs.co.uk www.dcrs.co.uk

On-site

The Showman’s Show

23-24 October 2024 | Newbury Showground

NEWMAN EVENT SERVICES

Newman Event Services had a very productive few days at The Showman’s Show last week. It was fantastic to reconnect with familiar faces and create new contacts while celebrating our tenth year as a business!

With 2025 already shaping up to be promising, everyone at Newman Events is excited for the future!

If you’d like to discuss how we can help with your crowd management needs in 2025 contact our team here. enquiries@newmanevents.co.uk 01295 722844

COLDTRAILA

Showman’s Show 2024 was a massive success for ColdTraila particularly so since we took over Refrigerated Trailer Sales & Hire Ltd in late 2023. It was great to catch up with so many of our existing customers and to meet clients who used to deal with Refrigerated Trailer.

The positive show atmosphere was helped by great weather and we had the benefit of welcoming back Dan Long as Sales Manager. www.coldtraila.co.uk

WISE PARKING

Being new to the world of Events, it is clear the calibre of people that attend the Showman’s Show means that we will be coming back year on year. Having met some incredible people, we are looking forward to deepening relationships, and help events improve their bottom line.

03301 334522

info@wiseparking.co.uk www.wiseparking.co.uk www.linkedin.com/company/ wise-parking/

EXCLOOSIVE EVENT HIRE

We had a great time at the Showman’s Show 2024 and are proud to be the supplier who provides the toilet facilities for the Event. We would like to express our thanks to all of those who visited our stand and took time out of their day to have a chat with the team, and are looking forward to all of next year’s events with great anticipation.

01283 575 749

07778 473 064

info@excloosive.co.uk

Catching up with clients, old and new, is a show highlight. We heard about various projects in the planning stages, and clients were interested in our Eco-range of fabrics derived from recycled source material and the vibrant custom-printed carpet showcased on our stand.

0208 988 9100 www.sunbaba.co.uk

Site Equip Launches Innovative Site Sleep Sleeper Cabins at The Showman Show 2024! Designed to elevate comfort and sustainability, the new Site Sleep sleeper cabins feature cuttingedge eco-friendly materials, ergonomic space utilisation and a sleek, modern look. With outstanding feedback from attendees, Site Sleep promises a fresh solution for onsite accommodation for Events and Construction. Visit our website to learn more about this exciting addition to our product line! hire@site-equip.co.uk

01256 384 134

SUNBABA

SITE EQUIP

BRADSHAW EVENT VEHICLES

The Showman’s Show

23-24 October 2024 | Newbury Showground

VESPASIAN SECURITY

The Vespasian team have been exhibiting at the Showman’s Show for over a decade. Year after year we meet new clients and great long standing industry colleagues. For the us, attending the Showman’s Show is a must. 2024 was no exception with us meeting some great new entrants to the live events industry as well as chatting with colleagues we have worked with over the last 18 years. www.vespasiansecurity.co.uk

ROADPHONE NRB

We’re really enjoyed catching up with lots of our existing customers at this year’s Showman’s Show, as well as meeting lots of new faces who were interested in event communications. The Showman’s Show always provides a great opportunity to showcase our products and solutions, and to discuss how we can support event organisers with their two-way radio communications. We look forward to returning next year! www.roadphone.co.uk

THE OCCASIONALL GROUP

The Occasionall Group enjoyed a productive couple of days at The Showman’s Show 2024, making connections and showcasing their expert staffing solutions through Festivall and Occasionall Staff. Their stand saw strong engagement from event professionals across the industry where all levels and scopes of human resourcing was discussed. Didn’t get a chance to chat with the team? Reach out via hello@theoccasionall.group to set up a complimentary staffing strategy session or explore their comprehensive services at www.theoccasionall.group

IPS were busy talking about future Outdoor Roof Stage & Structure bookings from our Two Storey Control structure. New features for 2025 include optional Glass Balustrade handrails with black framework, Black Wall panels for Projection & Control Structures and a new range of LED Screen Supports. Ready for widescreen, Square/ Instagram and TikTok style portrait 9:16 options, structures can be supplied bare or fitted with IPS Outdoor LED screen panels. tom@impactproductions.co.uk 01908 657950

ALTERNATIVE STRETCH TENTS

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CW Event Hire: Powering Your Event

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BRADSHAW EVENT VEHICLES

On track

When the weather is dry and the ground is hard, it can be tricky to argue the importance of trackway, but you never know when the heavens will open. Here, ground protection specialists talk about industry trends, best practices, and new products

n 2023, Tramlines festival faced heavy criticism from Sheffield residents when torrential rain turned their beloved Hillsborough Park into a mud bath. Home to Tramlines since 2018, the park was left looking like a “building site”, so earlier this year, when the festival went through its licence review with Sheffield City Council, it came with some conditions.

At a council meeting in March, Superstruct agreed to a fee schedule, which would help protect the park from future damage and at the 2024 event, the music festival installed additional trackway. Plus, it had a contingency on-site should the weather have turned bad. Luckily, the weather gods were kind to the Tramlines team this year and it did not have to lean on its additional wet weather resources. Sadly, some organisers were not so lucky. The organisers of Penrith’s Wannasee Festival and Dagenham’s We Are Fstvl were forced to cancel their events before they had even opened their gates. Downpours resulted in poor ground conditions that would not have been able to safely host heavy-duty event infrastructure or an audience.

CAREFUL PLANNING

It’s demonstrative of the impact that weather can have on site conditions. Rain can have a considerable impact on already scant resources, which is why sturdy ground protection and flooring solutions are essential if you wish to protect the ground from damage and improve access for vehicles and pedestrians.

TPA worked with Bauer Media in June and supplied Rail Live with ground protection. The show, which takes place at Long Marston Rail Innovation Centre in Warwickshire, expanded onto a second farmer’s field. But the ground conceals a minefield of gas mains that required a double layer of TPA’S heavy duty aluminium roadway panels.

Clear planning was required pre-event to determine how the panels would be configured to ensure the land was protected and vital resources were not damaged.

This is a scenario that Dean Parker, production manager at Wilde Ones, recognises, having consulted with GT Trax this year about a specific solution he required for Brighton’s Fabuloso in the Park.

STABLE SOLUTION

“Every vehicle leaving the Fabuloso site runs down a road and over a cable ramp, which takes water across the road,” explains Parker. “But the problem is, so many trucks and vehicles run over it, it just kept shifting. We had tried everything, including cable ramp and DDA cable ramp, so we had to think how can we stop the ramp moving and stabilise it.”

Parker and his team looked at chamfering GT Trax’s heavy-weight Power Tracks 40 panels and having cable ramp in between. However, the ops team still needed to access the pipes underneath the ramp. Nothing could be placed on top of it.

Parker continued: “In the end, we bolted trackway panels to the cable ramp. We had three large pieces of plastic trackway bolted on either side of the cable ramp. The weight was such that it wasn’t going to move.

“It served two purposes. The road that the ramp was on, was on a slope so vehicles would always get too fast coming down it. So whenever a vehicle drove down it, they would knock the ramp. We placed two slow signs on either side of the ramp. This was visual, so

everyone had to slow down and as a result, the cable ramp didn’t move.”

COLLABORATION

Wilde Ones worked with GT Trax to come up with the solution that worked for the large-scale event and it’s this collaborative approach that is needed if organisers are to solve specific challenges and deliver their events on time and on budget.

Great British Festivals’ Edward Prophet, festival director of The Brit Fest, engaged Sunbelt Rentals for the first large music festival that he and his brother Anthony had organised. Plus, it was the first time that an event of this scale had been hosted at Ashley Hall Showground, Cheshire.

Sunbelt Rentals engaged with Prophet from the initial planning stages and made recommendations for the event infrastructure equipment required to ensure a successful and safe event. Pedestrian and vehicular trackway were installed to protect the ground underneath and the event was such a hit that its return has been confirmed for 2025.

GAME CHANGER

Unfortunately, trackway is one of the least budget-friendly commodities. It can be a hugely unexpected cost, particularly if you do not have a contingency fund if unseasonal weather fronts hit. Therefore, this can sometimes lead event professionals to favour price over service and other considerations, such as ease of installation. This is a hugely important factor to consider especially when there is pressure to deliver event sites and vital infrastructure in shorter periods of time.

Recently, The Box Group launched Stadia XHD, a modular ground protection system with panels that can be manhandled and have a deployment rate of 55 square metres per man per hour.

According to John Davy, CEO of The Box Group, Stadia XHD is a “game-changing system” and a significant advancement from existing ground protection and temporary access solutions. In fact, he says it’s something that the live events industry has been “crying out for over the last 15 years”. He continues: Stadia XHD will save

on average 50 per cent of the time currently needed to deploy the other products in the market, which will, in turn, allow our customers to save money and resources.”

NEW PRODUCTS

Nick Russell, business development manager at Autotrak, confirmed that the ground protection specialist is looking to invest in another 2,000 trackway panels to meet current demand for its products and Cap Trac has launched TerraGuard Eco, which sits neatly between its TerraGuard and TerraGuard Lite solutions.

Cap Trac says that TerraGuard Eco is a more environmentally-friendly version of TerraGuard, in terms of transportation, meaning more TerraGuard Eco panels can fit on one truck, reducing the carbon footprint. Perfect for light trails and “slightly more robust”, TerraGuard Eco benefits from larger panels, which are thicker. Therefore, it’s more stable and is perfect for when TerraGuard Lite isn’t quite enough, concludes Richard Thomas, director of Cap Trac.

STADIA XHD

TERRAGUARD ECO

GT TRAX IN ACTION

FABULOSO IN THE PARK

Behind the scenes

Sunbelt Rentals’ Ann Marie Brindle talks about sustainability, supply chains and simplicity

ow commercial director of trakway, I’ve worked for Sunbelt Rentals for 23 years. During that time, we’ve supported some of the world’s most iconic events, including the Olympics, various World Cups and Ryder Cups and many of the UK’s famous music festivals. Every event comes with unique logistical and operational challenges, from creating temporary infrastructure for international athletes to safely managing access for large volumes of heavy traffic delivering equipment to site.

Over the years, I’ve seen sustainability become a consistent priority. To support the sector, rental companies must continually innovate to minimise environmental impact, whether through more sustainable materials, efficient transport strategies, or reducing waste on-site.

We are also (thankfully) seeing an increasing emphasis on health and safety. At Sunbelt Rentals, we have always prioritised expert-led, safe practices, from planning through to execution, and I’m glad to see standards being raised across the industry.

SOLUTIONS THAT SEEM SIMPLE

When our customers try to manage logistics and access in areas with rough terrain, unpredictable weather and tight timelines they need suppliers they can rely on. This frees them up to focus on delivering an unforgettable event or project.

That’s what we mean when we refer to ourselves as “the team behind the team”. We’re working away in the background taking care of the infrastructure that allows everything else to run smoothly and safely. Many people don’t realise the level of expertise and preparation required to ensure safe, seamless temporary access. Our teams work tirelessly to anticipate every detail: terrain, climate, safety protocols and logistics. From the outside, it might seem simple, but there’s a team of experts ensuring that every single trakway panel and access point meets rigorous standards for functionality and safety.

THE BIGGEST CHALLENGES IN RECENT YEARS

Retaining skilled people and supply chain costs have been two of the biggest industry challenges. At Sunbelt Rentals, we invest heavily in training and developing our teams, ensuring they’re equipped to deliver a world-class rental experience. On the supply side, the costs and availability of materials can fluctuate, but strong supplier partnerships and a proactive approach to resource management help deliver for our customers.

AND THE BIGGEST OPPORTUNITIES?

It’s interesting to see how the winter event market has truly blossomed. I anticipate an increase in winter festivals, light installations and cultural gatherings, given the enthusiasm for open-air experiences. By developing and deploying advanced, weather-resistant, durable solutions – like trakway – ensures we can keep delivering safe, accessible experiences for attendees and organisers alike, even in challenging winter conditions.

ANN MARIE BRINDLE ( she/her )

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Appetite for success

Great food and drink are essential to event and festival experiences. Here, organisers and industry experts discuss how they are working together to place food and drink front and centre

PEPPERMINT BARS AND EVENTS

n the last 12 months, the popularity of vegan food has risen by 28 per cent, sales of non-alcoholic drinks have risen by 35 per cent, and sales of babycinos have risen by 60 per cent.

These latest statistics from Togather, the event management platform, shine a light on the changing tastes of the UK event industry’s food scene.

Togather tracked data from more than 100 major live events, including GALA, Black Deer, and On the Beach, to gain an insight into what eventgoers want so that organisers can factor these into their F&B (food and beverage) plans.

For example, the rise in sales of babycinos suggests that parents are more comfortable taking their children to events, and the rising popularity of vegan and non-alcoholic options signifies a growing need for organisers to recognise audiences’ lifestyle choices.

INTEGRAL TO THE EXPERIENCE

According to the Purple Guide, F&B is the second largest spend category (after ticketing), totalling £8 billion of the overall £39 billion event spend. These stats are bolstered by research from Freemans Event Partners, which states that eight out of ten event attendees consider the range of alternative activities and facilities available at an outdoor live event as important as the event itself.

Lee Davies, operations director at Freemans Event Partners, explains: “Food

and drink have never been so integral to the fan experience at major events and venues. The diversification in our diets –something that has accelerated more than ever over the last decade or so – means that it’s vitally important that fans have a wide selection of cuisines to choose from, as well as making sure we are catering to all dietary preferences and requirements.

“Clients have a number of objectives when delivering events, whether it’s to increase dwell time, avoid queues or mitigate the weather. We are always looking for innovative ways to help them provide the best event experience possible, whether that’s through cutting-edge technology or game-changing design and build projects.”

OPERATIONAL IMPACT

Freemans Event Partners has seen a growing demand for immersive F&B experiences. Earlier this year, it opened a food village at Lord’s Cricket Ground, a two-storey structure with self-service kiosks and grab-and-go refrigeration units. The structure, designed to look like a cricket pavilion, cut queue times for fans in half during this summer’s Test matches, compared to last year.

Queue management will be a key focus at the GWCT Scottish Game Fair in 2025. The 2024 event – organised by Stable Events –implemented several F&B developments. David Gibson, Stable Events’ country

manager for Scotland, explains: “The F&B offering at The Scottish Game Fair has traditionally celebrated local and seasonal produce with a focus on showcasing regional specialities and game-inspired dishes. The decision to change and expand the F&B offering for 2024 reflected a desire to enhance the visitor experience, incorporating diverse food trends and ensuring a fresh approach that appealed to a wider audience.”

Stable Events partnered with Swallow Events, which delivered several new developments.

“The changes to the F&B offering had a positive operational impact, drawing increased footfall to food zones and encouraging longer visitor engagement,” Gibson comments. “The new offer also meant logistical adjustments, such as streamlined vendor coordination and waste management, which improved overall efficiency. While some adaptations were required, these changes ultimately elevated the event’s atmosphere and visitor satisfaction.

“Feedback from the 2024 event highlighted the importance of variety, quality, and accessibility in F&B. Based on this, for 2025, plans include a stronger emphasis on sustainability and local suppliers. Enhanced layout designs for food areas and improved queue management will also be key focus areas to optimise visitor satisfaction.”

CANDY CANE LANE AT HYDE PARK WINTER WONDERLAND

INCREASE IN REVENUE

This year, Togather worked with the organising team behind the Royal International Air Tattoo (RIAT) and increased the number of breakfast and coffee suppliers, which led to a 50 per cent increase in sales. RIAT made this move because of a growing demographic of ticketholders arriving on-site earlier to get the “best spots for the day”.

Togather – which recently launched Togather Live 360, a tech product that streamlines the way event organisers manage their food and beverage concessions – collaborated with RIAT to increase the number of sheltered areas on-site from three to seven to increase dwell time around the aviation event’s food villages. This is because RIAT experienced baking hot sunshine in 2022 and torrential rain in 2023. As a result, the shelter and shade areas were introduced by RIAT’s planning team, consequently increasing F&B spend.

KEY ELEMENT

According to Suzy Griffiths, vice president of arts and entertainment at IMG, organiser of Hyde Park Winter Wonderland, event food is no longer something to just grab in between seeing a show or going on rides. It has become a key element that people seek out.

She says: “I think everyone in the industry has seen guests’ expectations and appetites change so much over the last few years. Each

FREEMANS EVENT PARTNERS AT LORD’S

year, we study the guest feedback and look to see how we can add and improve. One thing that is consistently evident is the need for a good breadth of food offers.”

Griffiths and her team work with Peppermint Bars and Events to ensure a diverse range of food traders are present at the festive event. In 2023, Peppermint Bars and Events took over the running of Hyde Park Winter Wonderland’s Sleigh By area – a new, premium food market, complete with a sit-down fondue restaurant. This proved so popular that it has not only been retained for 2024, but a second sit-down offer has been introduced in Santa Land.

Santa Land is a “haven for families”, and this year, it will feature Voodoo Ray’s Bottomless Pizza experience, says Adam Hempenstall, co-founder of Peppermint Bars and Events. “What we’ve learned in the last 12 months with our fondue restaurant is that the prebookable element is really key,” Hempenstall explains. “People like the fact that they can book a table and they can be guaranteed a bit of space and a time to sit down.

“We saw huge amounts of demand for that last year, and we expect that to increase this year, especially as visitors will be able to book a table for Voodoo Ray’s.”

Again, these are not the only developments to Winter Wonderland’s F&B. The large-scale event will see the return of Candy Cane Lane, a dedicated market to all things sweet, and Peppermint Bars and Events is working with Foodsteps to introduce carbon labelling on menus. Plus, traders will use Notpla seaweed serve ware.

ZERO ZONE

Davies confirms that sustainability was a key theme at this year’s Formula One British Grand Prix, too. At Silverstone, Freemans Event Partners curated the Zero Zone, a dedicated area featuring low-carbon impact food outlets, plastic-free and recyclable packaging, and bars serving climateconscious drinks – and powered by hybrid battery generators.

Davies continues: “This was a hugely successful initiative for us, enabling us to

provide Formula One fans with something new and give local producers and suppliers a platform to reach hundreds of thousands of new customers.

“We also worked with a range of social media influencers across our event calendar and partnered with the likes of Spud Man – the baked potato TikTok sensation – to appeal to a whole new demographic and generation of motor racing fans. This is something that we’ll be looking to build on in the new year and beyond, marrying up what fans are engaging with online with their favourite sporting and music events in real life.”

LOW AND NO

Hempenstall believes that there’s a greater desire for eventgoers “to be in the moment”. Again, this is backed by research that suggests that when Gen Alpha (the generation born between 2010 and 2024) reach the legal drinking age, 40 per cent of women will not drink at all.

Togather’s statistics suggest that the bestselling drink is still a pint of lager – outselling non-alcoholic options by five times. However, whilst there’s no denying that lager remains popular, demand for low and no-alcohol options at events and festivals is growing. Events such as Hyde Park Winter Wonderland attract a large international audience, including a significant number of families, so offering a variety of drinks is crucial.

DRINK RESPONSIBLY

Peppermint Bars and Events contracts companies like Innserve – the drinks dispense and technical services provider – to install the equipment that ensures guests can expect a perfectly poured drink at live events and festivals.

For example, at Forest Live, TK Maxx presents Lytham Festival, and TK Maxx presents Live at The Piece Hall, Halifax – all delivered by Cuffe and Taylor – Innserve and Peppermint worked together to offer ticketholders a first-rate F&B experience. But in 2024, Innserve – which provides services to Nottingham Winter Wonderland, Skate

Bournemouth and Uttoxeter Racecourse Beer Festival – also worked at Edinburgh Fringe and BST Hyde Park, installing fonts at the end of each bar front, which dispensed water and encouraged eventgoers to drink responsibly.

MORE THAN MUSIC

Similarly, Streamline Leisure worked with Cuffe and Taylor this year, delivering F&B services across its Summer Sessions series. It is working with the promoter in 2025 and is also set to supply Boardmasters, Hay Festival, Sundown Festival, and Boomtown with F&B and trader management expertise. William Hunter, director of Streamline Leisure, believes that F&B at live events has changed as organisers have started to realise that they want their festival to stand out on food and not just music. Previously, bars were everything, and food came second, but now organisers want something unique, a destination area that people purposely aim for; it’s not something they pass because they want to get to another stage or their campsite.

Nick Crow, event production and operations manager at Bar Live Events, concurs. He says it’s important to work with an F&B provider or trader management company that cares about a specific audience and takes time to research their likes and dislikes.

“Customers appreciate a considered choice with quality products and quality service,” comments Crow. “Organisers should appreciate that in this financial climate, people have chosen to come to your event, and so treat them well with quality products with a quality service. This will help elevate the event no end. Next to the lineup, the F&B is the shopfront of the event. It’s what represents the festival and should be well considered.”

POSITIVE CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE

Most recently, Bar Live Events worked on a two-night Halloween show in Glasgow’s Riverside Transport Museum for promoters Melting Pot and Optimo. It was Bar Live Event’s third year overseeing the licence

CARBON LABELLING

management and bar production in the 1,000-cap venue.

Although a fantastic space, the museum – complete with trains, planes and automobiles – is not a purpose-built event venue, and so there are challenges around limited operational space and producing within a venue which is open to the public between shows.

This year, the promoters wanted to increase both the capacity of the event and produce a two-night show to meet public demand. From an F&B perspective, Crow and his team knew that the current bar operation would not be effective against a customer increase. Therefore, Crow was tasked with devising creative alternatives with a mixed product range.

Location was paramount. It had to have both length and depth for front and back bars, a location that could hold any possible customer build-up and a location with sufficient 4G/internet connection for the PDQs.

After site visits, detailed planning meetings and a connectivity report, Crow concluded that the museum realistically didn’t have an additional location which could comfortably offer all three requirements. Instead, it was decided that the bar operation should be split into three smaller bars across the museum, which collectively gave the required meterage and would ensure a smoother bar experience. This decision also enabled the creation of different drinks menus. One bar would provide a full range of products, a second bar a streamlined menu of the top sellers, and the third would offer an additional cocktail range. This facilitated quicker speed of service as staff only needed to think

about a maximum of seven products at any bar. Crow adds: “Customers expect quality for their money (as they should), and a good F&B provider is the right step to ensuring a positive customer experience. Good F&B will make your customer feel valued and demonstrates that you as an organiser are mindful of that customer preference.”

VALUE FOR MONEY

Value for money and price point is a key consideration for many ticketholders and organisers, too. For instance, at Y Not 2024, Superstruct contracted D&J Catering to work with all its traders. Because of the family-friendly nature of the event, affordability was a priority. It wanted all concessions to provide a £10 – or less – meal option. And it had to be a main meal.

The £10 price cap was discussed with traders at the point of application, and anyone who was accepted to trade was made aware of needing to meet the cap.

“When we spoke with traders, we asked them if the £10 price point was something they could do,” explains Beth Greaves, senior concession manager at D&J Catering. “We explained to them that we understood if it was something they were unable to do, but we also explained that it was something the promoter wished to do to make things affordable across the site.”

She continues: “Most traders said they could make it work. But the option had to be substantial, without sacrificing the portion size or the quality of the actual product itself.”

Alex Fearn, festival coordinator at Y Not Festival, explains: “D&J are the experts in this area, so getting their input on the price was very helpful, and they let us know £10

was an achievable target. Once this was agreed, they did a great job of making it a requirement for the traders in the application/selection process with them also managing this on-site, completing checks across the units.”

But what did Greaves and her team learn from the price cap? “We are one of the few concessions management companies that operate our own outlets and book other traders,” Greaves adds. “So, I think we’re fully aware of the price hikes, the outgoings and what goes into running an outlet. For me, it was a case of talking to our internal ops team and asking them if it was possible and then learning from the other traders and learning from our wholesale team.

“For example, the price of biodegradable packaging has gone through the roof, but you’re unable to trade without it, and we don’t allow anyone to trade without it. So it’s another cost and a hidden cost that I think the public doesn’t always see, which has an impact on the over-thecounter price.”

Greaves believes that more promoters and organisers will introduce a pricecapped item on their menus in 2025, and traders will be asked to prepare cheaper meal options.

Fearn confirmed that the price cap is something Y Not wishes to carry forward for 2025 as the festival looks to remain affordable in the current climate.

Fearn concludes: “Almost everyone has an experience of F&B over the festival, and the happier they are with both the quality and affordability of these products, the more time they can spend in the arenas enjoying the show, so good F&B is certainly important.”

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TMerry and Bright(on)

Brighton is to get a new festive event this December. Discover who is behind Brighton Winter Fayre and why its organiser is best placed to bring Christmas cheer to residents and visitors

his December, Brighton and Hove residents – and visitors – will experience a new winter extravaganza thanks to three of the city’s most respected events professionals. Anne Marie Chebib, MD of Select Security and chair of the UKCMA, Becky Stevens, MD of Hybred Events and Lisa Norman, MD of Lout Promotions, have joined forces to present Brighton Winter Fayre, described as festive fun with a Brighton twist!

Running every Thursday to Sunday, from December 5-22, and set right in the heart of the city in St. Peter’s Square, Brighton Winter Fayre promises a packed programme of entertainment comprised of workshops for adults and children, a covered food and drink area, “Winter Nights” for the grown-ups and an immersive grotto created by Artpod.

WHAT BRIGHTON WANTS

Select Security – with Hybred Events and Lout Promotions as supporting partners –tendered for the Brighton and Hove City Council contract to create a festive event and, in August, was given the green light to produce Brighton Winter Fayre for the next three years. Since the summer, Stevens, Norman and Chebib have worked round the clock to bring the new event to life.

“Annie and I have known Lisa for more than 20 years,” Stevens explained. “Lisa is

the event manager for The Great Escape and runs Lout Promotions, and we’ve all worked together for a very long time! We are all women who run our own businesses and are passionate about delivering quality events.”

All three organisers have either been born or lived in Brighton for more than 30 years and have a good understanding of what the community wants and, most importantly, what works. What’s more, as local Brighton businesswomen, they want to give something back to their home city.

GAP IN THE MARKET

Both Brighton and Hove have hosted Christmas events in the past, but according to Stevens, they have not worked. The trio saw a gap in the calendar. Stevens continued: “Brighton has very much been seen as a summer destination, and there hasn’t been much going on in the winter. Then, post-pandemic, the council wanted to promote Brighton as a year-round destination, and they supported the idea of a Christmas market. We’ve stepped away from the traditional Christmas Market concept and have tailored our event to be more ‘Brighton’ by looking more at entertainment and activities.”

BUSINESS

BENEFIT

Brighton Winter Fayre has already

contracted several suppliers, including local contractors, to work on the event, including C3 Productions, Smart Power, Orange Beach Bars, Complex Simplicity, EpiOne Medical, and, of course, Select Security and Hybred Events.

Stevens said: “It’s really important to us that we deliver an event for Brighton and Hove and that we work with as many local suppliers as possible. We want this to benefit everyone in the long run.

“We’ve gone for building long-term partnerships over making a quick buck. Establishing good working relationships with stakeholders and local residents, and most importantly, building a good team around us.”

Norman, Stevens and Chebib hope to attract more than 2,000 visitors a day to Brighton Winter Fayre. They hope that more visitors will attend as word begins to spread, and there are already plans for 2025. Stevens concluded: “We are committed to giving Brighton a great Christmas pop-up in the centre of town that celebrates everything our eclectic and fabulous city is about. Championing local food traders, local businesses and local entertainment talent, all tickets have accessible price points with loads of free entertainment for everyone to enjoy, reflecting our truly diverse community.”

BRIGHTON WINTER FAYRE TEAM Image: © Chris Jepson

LOCATIONS

London

FIND US

35 Millmead Ind Estate, Mill Mead Rd, London, N17 9QU

Putting freelancers first

Festivals that lead the way in freelancer welfare are proving that when you treat everyone with consideration, you get a better event. Cat Kevern, director of Electric Cat Productions, gives a freelancer’s perspective on what needs to change

Freelancers (like those pictured) are the undeniable backbone of the live events industry. Bouncing from festivals to sporting events to niche corporate engagements, armed with energy, expertise, and a lot of elbow grease. They are usually the ones with dirt under their nails, resolving last-minute snags, soothing nervous speakers, or grappling to keep the power running during a storm. For event organisers, they often serve as the boots on the ground, seeing every detail from the front lines, plugging gaps in staffing or knowledge, and generally putting out fires (both literally and figuratively!). Despite this, many freelancers find themselves feeling more like a set of hands than a valued member of the wider operation. Let’s talk about that for a second, shall we?

THROWN IN THE DEEP END

Stepping onto a new site as a freelancer can feel like walking into a well-oiled machine, a slow-motion car crash, or just about anything in between.

Each event has its quirks and little kinks to work out, but freelancers are often expected to just “know” what needs doing, even with minimal information or prior briefings. Sometimes, there’s a fantastic handover and a full rundown of what’s expected. But more

often than not, you’re thrown a radio and a coffee and plunged into the unknown.

There’s an unspoken expectation that freelancers will just “figure it out”. While that might work for those who have been in the industry long enough to know the ropes, even seasoned pros need event-specific intel. We’re talking simple stuff: Clear expectations, site orientation, and contact points for any welfare support. While event crews are often briefed on every aspect of proceedings, freelancers can sometimes be left out of these discussions, which is both frustrating and a recipe for mishaps.

FREELANCER FEEDBACK (OR LACK OF)

We all know the post-event routine – teams gather, swap stories, breathe a collective sigh of relief, praise what went well, and analyse what went sideways. Within these conversations, the skeleton of next year’s festival or next season’s event begins to take shape, moulded by the insights, reflections, and learnings of the core team. However, freelancers are frequently neglected from these pivotal discussions.

This might seem like a small oversight, but it’s a huge missed opportunity. Freelancers are the eyes and ears throughout an event, often aware of things that slipped through the cracks. Maybe they noticed security was

stretched too thin in certain areas or spotted potential bottlenecks at food stations that could be improved next year. They may have had to jump in and resolve problems or rejig processes to improve efficiency. Perhaps they even experienced safeguarding issues first-hand, like witnessing a volunteer who wasn’t in a fit state to work but didn’t know who to talk to about it.

When freelancers aren’t included in these post-festival debriefs, organisers miss out on essential insights that can help an event improve year after year. Plus, it’s a bit of a slap in the face to those who worked their tails off, especially when they are harbouring important feedback about their own and others’ experiences.

LET’S TALK SAFEGUARDING

Now, here’s where we get into something crucial: Freelancer welfare. Historically, welfare policies in the event industry have been more focused on full-time staff and volunteers. Freelancers can end up falling into the abyss of the grey area, leaving us to fend for ourselves.

A standard weekend of work at a festival will usually entail 12-16 hour days. One after another. For some, this may be more like seven or ten consecutive long days. When facing work of this intensity, often at the

mercy of the Great British elements, access to basic necessities and welfare should not be left to chance. Stories of freelancers going without water, breaks, adequate facilities, access to designated places to rest, or – devastatingly – a kettle are far too common.

This isn’t just a comfort issue; it’s a safety issue. Freelancers are just as susceptible to burnout, illness, and fatigue as anyone else. Perhaps more so, given the piecemeal nature of the work and the fact that many of us hop directly from one job to another. We all know that tired people make mistakes, and mistakes lead to accidents. Recently, a handful of festivals have started taking steps to address freelancer welfare, something we should be equally celebrating and learning from.

TRAILBLAZERS

Here’s to the events that are getting it right (or at least making an effort):

Glastonbury Festival: Not only does Glastonbury offer plenty of on-site facilities and designated rest areas, but it has also introduced welfare check-ins for freelancers, making sure everyone feels supported and valued.

Boomtown Fair: With an emphasis on mental health, Boomtown has started including freelancers in its welfare programmes. It offers access to wellbeing spaces and has set up mindfulness sessions to help everyone decompress after a long day.

Shambala Festival: Shambala has a stellar reputation for sustainability and welfare across the board. From talking to freelancers at Shambala, they receive regular welfare checks, structured breaks and benefit from an overall culture that emphasises safety and well-being. These festivals are setting the standard, showing that a little consideration goes a long way. When you have support, hydration stations, and welfare check-ins in place, freelancers get to truly feel part of the team they’re collaborating with. And a freelancer who feels appreciated? That’s someone who’ll go above and beyond, no question.

CHEEKY SUGGESTIONS

For the event organisers who have made it this far, want to make a change, and are looking for a nudge in the right direction, here are a few basics:

Brief us, please: Don’t skip the quick briefings, even if you think it’s all selfexplanatory. It’s better to be clear than to assume we’ll figure it out on our own. Invite us to the post-mortem: We’re not asking to be involved in the whole washup session, but a chance to share our observations would be invaluable – for both sides.

Check on us: Welfare checks aren’t just for permanent staff. A quick radio call or a visit to make sure we’re not overworked, hungry, or dehydrated goes a long way.

Designated rest areas: A little corner of peace where we can recharge during hectic days would be a godsend. It doesn’t have to be fancy; it just needs to be available.

Consider our feedback as valuable: We’re the ones in the thick of it. Our perspective can be a game-changer if it’s truly considered and implemented.

WHY FREELANCERS DESERVE MORE

Freelancers are the life force of festivals and events, showing up, getting stuck in, and doing the essential work that brings the whole thing together. But all too often, we’re treated like an afterthought – brought in for the hard work, then forgotten when it’s time to celebrate or reflect on a job well done.

By bringing freelancers into the fold and making sure they’re supported on-site, the events industry has an opportunity to evolve into something even better. Festivals that lead the way in freelancer welfare are already proving that when you treat everyone with consideration, from the headliner to the last freelancer on-site, you end up with an event that runs smoother, feels safer, and leaves a lasting impression on all involved.

So here’s to a new wave of events that value every hand on deck. As for us freelancers? We’ll keep showing up, rain or shine, ready to make magic happen – so long as there’s a coffee (and a little appreciation) waiting for us when we arrive.

ROBYN TEMPLEMAN ( she/they)

CAT KEVERN ( she/her)

ACCESSIBILITY & INCLUSION

Eventwell

T: 0800 470 0958

E: bookings@eventwell.org

W: EventWell.org

ASSOCIATION

Event Hire Association

2450 Regents Court, The Crescent, Birmingham Business Park, Solihull, B37 7YE

T: 0121 380 4600

E: membership@eha.org.uk

W: www.eha.org.uk

MUTA

10B Red House Yard Gislingham Road, Thornham Magna, Eye, Suffolk IP23 8HH

T: 01379 788673

E: info@muta.org.uk

W: www.muta.org.uk

AV, SOUND & LIGHTING

Event Production Services

The Pack House, Drayton St. Leonard, Oxford, OX10 7BG

T: 01844 278446

E: info@epsoxford.com

Hire Frequencies

T: 0203 3026947

E: enquiries@hirefrequencies.co.uk

W: www.hirefrequencies.co.uk

Press Red Rentals Limited

Unit H11, Halesfield 19, Telford, TF7 4QT

T: +44 (0) 1952 587049

W: www.pressred.biz

BALLOONS, BUNTING & FLAGS

B-Loony Ltd

Cape House, 105 Bellingdon Road, Chesham, Buckinghamshire, HP5 2HQ

T: 01494 774376

E: sales@b-loony.co.uk

W: www.b-loony.co.uk

BAR

Bar Live Events

Unit D215, Parkhall Studios, London, SE21 8DE

T: 0208 761 8424

E: nick@barlive.co.uk

W: www.barlive.co.uk

Cambridge Event Bars

T: 01223 785401

M: 07837 707057

E: Info@cambridgeeventbars.co.uk

W: www.cambridgeeventbars.co.uk

Pop-up-Pubs

T: +44(0)1993 832155

Symonds Event Bars

Drakewell, Stoke Lacy, Bromyard, Herefordshire, HR7 4HG

T: 01885 490267

E: info@eventbars.co.uk

W: www.eventbars.co.uk

BAR/DRINK DISPENSE EQUIPMENT

Innserve Ltd

T: 01937 535000

E: eventsandstandby@innserveltd.com

W: www.innserveltd.co.uk

BRAND ACTIVATION & EXPERIENTIAL

Instant Marquees

T: 01840 213063

www.instantmarquees.co.uk

Bradshaw Event Vehicles

New Lane, Stibbington, Peterborough, PE8 6LW

T: 01780 782621

E: enquiries@eventvehicles.co.uk

W: www.eventvehicles.co.uk

Twitter: @Bradshaw_EV

Event Buggy Hire

T: 0113 393 4100

E: info@eventbuggyhire.co.uk

W: www.eventbuggyhire.co.uk

Hopkins Machinery

T: 01633 680754

E: hire@hopkinsmachinery.co.uk

W: www.hopkinsmachinery.co.uk

Qdos Event Hire Ltd

Fernside Place, 179 Queens Road, Weybridge, Surrey, KT13 0AH

T: 0845 862 0952

E: enquiries@qdoseventhire.co.uk

W: www.qdoseventhire.co.uk

Twitter: @QdosEventHire

: www.facebook.com/pages/Qdos-Event-Hire/ : @qdoseventhire

Wernick Events

Joseph House, Northgate Way, Aldridge, Walsall, WS9 8ST

T: 01922 472 900

E: events@wernick.co.uk

W: www.wernick.co.uk/events : @WernickEvents : @WernickEvents

E: info@pop-up-pubs.com

W: www.pop-up-pubs.com

BUGGY HIRE

CABINS

CONNECTIONS

CAR PARKING

Event Traffic Control Limited

Baldersby Gardens, Ripon Road, Baldersby, Thirsk, North Yorkshire, YO7 4PS

T: 08000 246 800

E: info@eventtc.com

W: www.eventtc.com

CATERING

Peaks Catering Ltd

T: 07702189920

E: Info@peakscatering.co.uk

W: www.peakscatering.co.uk

CLEANING & SUPPORT SERVICES

Falcon Cleaning

The Falcon Nest, Unit 10 & 11, Lower Gower Road, Royston SG8 5EA

E: admin@falconteam.co.uk

W: www.falconteam.co.uk

COFFEE BARS

Markey Ltd

39b Park Farm Ind Estate, Buntingford, Hertfordshire, SG9 9AZ

T: 01763 271110

E: info@markey.co.uk

W: www.markey.co.uk

CORPORATE CREW

Rodeo Crew

128 Wey House, 15 Church Street, Weybridge, Surrey, KT13 8NA

T: 020 8075 7799

E: bookcrew@rodeocrew.uk

W: www.rodeocrew.uk

CREW SERVICES

BTN Crew LTD

T: 07780 621 860

E: info@btncrew.com

W: www.BTNCrew.com www.facebook.com/BTNCREWltd/ www.instagram.com/btncrewltd/

Falcon Festival Services

The Falcon Nest, Unit 10 & 11, Lower Gower Road, Royston SG8 5EA

E: info@falconteam.co.uk

W: www.falconteam.co.uk

MLD Event Group

T: 01903372773

E: info@mld.events

W: www.mld.events

Optimal Events Group Ltd / Trading as Optimal Crew

Marsh Mill Village, 5A, Fleetwood Rd N, Thornton-Cleveleys FY5 4JZ

T: 07375 843976

E: jordan@optimalcrew.co.uk

W: https://optimalcrew.co.uk

S3K Group

The Old Mill Building, Rookery Farm, Bognor Regis, West Sussex, PO22 6EP

T: 0845 299 7991

E: office@s3kgroup.com

W: www.s3kgroup.com : @s3kgroup

Trojan Crewing Solutions Ltd

57 Eastbourne Avenue, Acton, London W3 6JS

T: 07341 922974

E: chris@trojancrew.com

W: www.TrojanCrew.com

DIGITAL PLANNING

Iventis

Think Tank, University of Lincoln, Ruston Way, Lincoln, LN6 7FL

T: 01522 837205

W: www.iventis.co.uk

E: info@iventis.co.uk

Eamon Kerrigan:

E: Eamon.kerrigan@iventis.co.uk

DRONE DISPLAYS

FlightShows

T: 020 3151 6891

E: Hello@FlightShows.com

W: www.FlightShows.com

: www.facebook.com/FlightShows/ : www.linkedin.com/company/flightshows/ : www.instagram.com/flightshows/ : www.tiktok.com/@flightshows_drones

EQUIPMENT & INFRASTRUCTURE

Falcon Site Equipment

The Falcon Nest, Unit 10 & 11, Lower Gower Road, Royston SG8 5EA

E: admin@falconteam.co.uk

W: www.falconteam.co.uk

EVENT ACCOMMODATION

Bunkabin

Tweedale Way, Oldham, OL9 7LD

T: 0345 456 7899

E: hires@bunkabin.co.uk

W: www.bunkabin.co.uk

Zoo Events Group Ltd

Stockton Dairy, Stockton, Warminster, BA12 OSQ

T: 01258 840233

E: info@zooeventsgroup.co.uk

W: www.zooeventsgroup.co.uk

EVENT CONTROL, RADIO & WI-FI SERVICES

Controlled Events

T: 0203 286 6392

E: info@controlledevents.com

W: www.controlledevents.com

First class Resilience, Readiness, Communication & Control for incidents or pre-planned events.

EVENT MANAGEMENT

CM Production Management Ltd

T: 020 8056465

E: hello@cmpm.co.uk

W: www.cmpm.co.uk : facebook.com/cmpmlive : @cmpmlive

LFX Events Unit 10 Merchants House, Market Place, Stockport, SK1 1EU

E: enquiries@lfxevents.co.uk

W: www.lfxevents.co.uk

SC Productions

T: 02921 850 650

E: admin@scproductionsltd.com

W: www.scproductionsltd.com

Victorious Events

T: 07869 701 616

E: info@victoriousevents.co.uk

W: victoriousevents.co.uk

EVENT PASS PRINTING

EVENT SAFETY

EVENT STAFF

Eyecatchers

T: 01772 681000

E: sales@eyecatchers.co.uk

W: www.eyecatchers.co.uk / www.myeventpass.co.uk

Eep Safety Team

Unit 42, Dunsfold Park, Guildford, Surrey, GU6 8TB

T: 01483 266486

E: tom@eepteam.com

W: www.eepsafety.com

LFX Safety

Unit 10 Merchants House, Market Place, Stockport, SK1 1EU

E: enquiries@lfxsafety.co.uk

W: www.lfxsafety.co.uk

The Occasionall Group: Festivall Staff | Occasionall Staff

The Circle, 33 Rockingham Lane, Sheffield S1 4FW

T: 01144 055 044

E: hello@theoccasionall.group

W: www.theoccasionall.group

Moorepeople Event Staffing Agency

1st & 2nd Floor, 169 A High Road, Loughton, Essex, IG10 4LF

T: 0208 508 0555

E: bettina@moorepeople.co.uk

W: www.moorepeople.co.uk

EXHIBITION STAND CONTRACTORS

Access Displays

Unit 38, Whitehill Industrial Estate, Whitehill Lane, Royal Wootton Bassett, Swindon, SN4 7DB sales@accessdisplays.co.uk www.accessdisplays.co.uk 01793 613088

EXHIBITION TRAILERS & MOBILE UNITS

FESTIVAL GAS

FIRE COVER

DWT Exhibitions

Trailer Hire, Sales & Management

Jubilee Park, Honeypot Lane, Colsterworth, Lincolnshire, NG33 5LZ

T: 01476 860833

E: pip@dwt-exhibitions.co.uk

W: www.dwt-exhibitions.co.uk

Inchmere Event Design Ltd

Swan Close Studios, Swan Close Road, Banbury, OX16 5TE

T: 01295 661000

E: alastair@inchmere.co.uk

W: www.inchmere.co.uk

TCM Trailers Ltd

Watery Lane, Lichfield, Staffordshire, WS13 7SE

E: emily@tcmtrailers.co.uk

W: www.tcmtrailers.co.uk

Festival Gas

Priors Revel, Church lane, Middleton, Nr Tamworth, B78 2AL

T: 07930 758893

E: simon@festivalgas.co.uk

W: www.festivalgas.co.uk

Aero Fire & Rescue Ltd

27 Old Gloucester Street London WC1N 3AX

T: 0330 111 3635

E: contact@aerofireandrescue.co.uk

W: www.aerofireandrescue.co.uk

Red Rose Fire Solutions Ltd 6 Brissenden Close

New Romney Kent TN28 8JD T: 01995 503504

E: info@redrosefiresolutions.co.uk

WH Management Group

PO Box 230, Heathfield East Sussex TN21 1DX

T: 01889 500 164

E: info@whmg.co.uk

W: www.whmg.co.uk

FLAGPOLE HIRE

Fuchsia Exhibition Services Ltd

13 Oak Park Industrial Estate, Chelmsford Road, Great Dunmow, Essex, CM6 1XN

T: 01371 644800

E: info@fuchsiaevents.co.uk

W: www.fuchsia-exhibition-services.com

FLAGS

Instant Marquees

T: 01840 213063 www.instantmarquees.co.uk

FLOORING & FLOOR COVERINGS

Coir Store

8-9 Yelverton Road, Brislington, Bristol BS4 5HP

E: info@coirstore.co.uk

T: 07983 614410

W: https://coirstore.co.uk

Event Flooring Solutions Ltd

T: 01509 768 252

E: sales@efseurope.co.uk

W: www.efseurope.co.uk

Gigtent UK

Sonas House, Button End Harston

Cambridge, CB22 7NX

T: 01223 870935

E: info@gigtent.co.uk

W: www.gigtent.co.uk

FURNITURE HIRE / SALES

Furniture On The Move

Unit B, Canada warehouse, Chittening industrial estate

Worthy road , Avonmouth, Bristol, BS110YB

T: 0845 459 9875

E: info@furnitureonthemove.co.uk

W: www.furnitureonthemove.co.uk

Innovative Hire

Unit N, Lion Works Estate, 543 Wallisdown Road

Bournemouth BH12 5AD

T: 01202 941 068

W: http://innovativehire.co.uk

HEATING & COOLING SYSTEMS

BiemmedueUK & Arcotherm

Unit 12, Wilson Road, South Wigston Leicester LE18 4TP

T: 01773 836999 | E: sales@biemmedueuk.com

W: www.biemmedueuk.com

Spica Temperature Control Solutions Ltd

20 Crowsport, Hamble, Hampshire, SO31 4HG

INFLATABLE STRUCTURES

Dawsongroup tcs

Export Drive, Sutton-in-Ashfield, Nottinghamshire NG17 6AF

Dawsongroup | tcs

T: 01623 518538

E: info@dgtcs.co.uk

W: https://dgtcs.co.uk/inflatable-cold-rooms/

INSURANCE

Arc International

St. Clare House, 30-33 Minories, London, EC3N 1PE

T: 0207 977 7637

W: www.arc-int.co.uk/

Tysers Insurance Brokers

71 Fenchurch Street, London, EC3M 4BS

T: 0203 037 8000

E: tim.rudland@tysers.com

W: www.tysers.com

Vento

LASER & FX

Event Insurance by Event People

107 Fenchurch Street, London, EC3M 5JF

T: 0333 090 7589

E: freddie@ventoinsurance.com

W: www.ventoinsurance.com

Laser Grafix

Unit 4A Stratton Park, Biggleswade, Bedfordshire, SG18 8QS

E: info@lgfx.co.uk

W: www.lgfx.co.uk

UK office: 01767 315948

Dubai office: +971 4887 9808

EMF Technology Ltd

Unit 27 Freemantle House, Kingsclere Business Park, Kingsclere, Hants, RG20 4SW

T: 020 8003 3344

E: info@emftechnology.co.uk

W: www.emftechnology.co.uk

Lightmedia Displays

Mobile & Modular LED Screen Hire

T: 0333 600 6000 - 24 hour response

E: sales@lightmedia.co.uk

W: www.lightmedia.co.uk

T: 02380 453841

M: 07780 638976

E: kay@spicasolutions.com

W: www.spicasolutions.com

Tech AV Ltd

London, Essex, Birmingham

T: 0345 257 9969

E: lee@techav.events

W: www.techav.events

YSLV

London & York

T: 0800 080 3310

E: hire@yslv.co.uk

W: www.yslv.co.uk

LED SCREENS

PART OF

MARQUEES

Illumin8

Nick: 07593437891

E: sales@illumin8lights.co.uk

W: www.illumin8lights.co.uk

Alternative Stretch Tents

Building 15, Gateway 1000, A1 (M) jct 7, Stevenage, SG1 2FP

T: 01920 830256

E: info@alternative-stretch.co.uk

Fews Marquees

Chessgrove Park, Ditchford Bank Road, Hanbury, Bromsgrove, Worcestershire, B60 4HS

T: 01527 821789

E: info@fews.co.uk

W: www.fewsmarquees.co.uk

Gigtent UK

Sonas House, Button End Harston

Cambridge, CB22 7NX

E: info@gigtent.co.uk

W: www.gigtent.co.uk

Canopy Medical Services Ltd

T: 07514 780025

E: jules@canopymedicalservices.co.uk

W: www.canopymedicalservices.co.uk

Enhanced Care Services

Unit H9, Adanac Park, Adanac Dr, Nursling, Southampton SO16 0BT

T: 02380 201561

E: admin@enhancedcareservices.co.uk

W: www.enhancedcareservices.co.uk

First Aid Cover Ltd

T: 020 8875 5758

E: enquiries@firstaidcover.co.uk

W: www.firstaidcover.co.uk

Location Medical Services Ltd

The Medical Centre, Shepperton Studios, Studio Road, Shepperton, Middx, TW17 0QD

T: 0870 750 9898

E: mail@locationmedical.com

W: www.locationmedical.com

Medirek

8 Primrose Place, Portsmouth Road, Godalming Surrey, GU7 2JW

T: 07776 128 409

safety and medical

E: ryan.soper@medirek.co.uk

W: www.medirek.co.uk

Instant Marquees

T: 01840 213063

www.instantmarquees.co.uk

TT Tents Ltd

North Waltham Business Centre, Basingstoke, Hampshire, RG25 2DJ

T: 01256 397 551

E: sales@tttents.co.uk

Tentickle Stretch Tents UK Ltd

Langley Brook Business Park, Unit 3B London Rd, Tamworth, B78 2BP

T: 0121 7401385

M: 07826 843099

E: jorg@tentickle-stretchtents.co.uk

W: www.tentickle-stretchtents.co.uk

Top Cat Big Tops Tents & Marquees Ltd

The Old Stable Yard, Gasworks Ln, Achynlleth, SY20 8BY

T: 01654 700030

E: info@topcatbigtops.co.uk

W: www.topcatbigtops.co.uk

MEDICAL SERVICES

Alliance Pioneer Group

Event Medical, Frontline Ambulance & Patient

Transport Services

Hawthorne House, 2nd Floor 25 Darklake View, Estover, Plymouth, PL6 7TL

T: 01752717720

E: mail@alliance-pioneer.co.uk

W: https://alliance-pioneer.co.uk/ : @alliancepioneergroup

: @AlliancePGUK

: https://www.facebook.com/Alliance.Pioneer

: https://uk.linkedin.com/company/alliancepioneer-group

MET Medical Ltd

T: 0203 627 9042

E: info@met-medical.co.uk

W: www.met-medical.co.uk

Trident Medical Limited

Based in Essex, cover events all over the UK

T: 01268 438899

M: 07379 244718

E: events@tridentmedical.co.uk

W: www.tridentmedical.co.uk

PARKING

Wise Parking

T: 03301 334522

E: info@wiseparking.co.uk

W: www.wiseparking.co.uk

Hopkins Machinery

T: 01633 680754

E: hire@hopkinsmachinery.co.uk

W: www.hopkinsmachinery.co.uk

PORTABLE TOILET HIRE

Excloosive Event Hire

Field House, Bromley Park, Abbots Bromley Rugeley, Staffordshire WS15 3AH

T: 01283 575 749

M: 07778 473 064

Email: info@excloosive.co.uk

PLANT HIRE

Four Jays Group

Barling Farm, East Sutton, Maidstone, Kent ME17 3DX

T: 01622 843135

E: enquiries@fourjays. co.uk

W: www.fourjays.co.uk

LOOS FOR DOs Ltd

Bakers Court, Forge Road, Kingsley, Hampshire GU35 9NZ

T: 01420 588 355

E: info@loos.co.uk

W: www.loos.co.uk

Just Loos

Paddock Barn, Manor Farm, Itchen Stoke, Hampshire, SO24 0QT

T: 01962 867808

E: office@justloos.com

W: www.JustLoos.com

Ontrax Rentals

Elmwood Farm, Bampton OX18 2PL, England

E: hello@ontraxrentals.com

W: www.ontraxrentals.com

Site Event

The Depot, The Avenue, Lasham, Hampshire GU34 5SU

T: 01256 384 134

E: event@site-equip.co.uk

W: www.site-equip.co.uk

Vacant Event Hire

Unit C White Oak Technology Park, London Road, Swanley, Kent BR8 7AG

T: 01322 761 117

M: 07960 301178

E: info@vacant.events

W: https://vacant.events/

Zoo Events Group Ltd

Stockton Dairy, Stockton, Warminster, BA12 OSQ

T: 01258 840233

E: info@zooeventsgroup.co.uk

W: www.zooeventsgroup.co.uk

POWER & GENERATORS

ATD Electrical

Unit 93, Greenway Business Centre, Greenway, Harlow, Essex, CM19 5QE

T: 01279 507890

E: office@atdelectrical.com

W: www.atdelectrical.com

Energy Management Services Ltd

T: 0333 305 5144

E: admin@energyms.co.uk

W: www.energyms.co.uk

Festival Power Ltd

Unit 2, Temple Bridge Business Park, Bristol, BS39 5AA

E: info@festivalpower.co.uk

W: www.festivalpower.co.uk

Fourth Generation Ltd

220 Cricklewood Lane, London, NW2 2PU

T: 020 8450 2943

M: 07741 052565

E: tweed@fourthgenerationltd.com

W: www.fourthgenerationltd.com

Gofer Ltd

Unit 7 Arkwright Road, Hadleigh Road Ind. Est, Ipswich, Suffolk, IP2 0UB

T: 01473 282530

E: info@gofer.co.uk

W: www.gofer.co.uk

IDE Systems

T: 01543 574 111

E: enquiries@idesystems.co.uk

W: www.idesystems.co.uk

Head Office & Manufacturing Centre

Unit 3, Swaffield Park Hyssop Close, Cannock

Staffordshire, WS11 7FU United Kingdom

Lifos Advanced Battery Technology Ltd

Stafford Park 5, Telford, TF3 3AS

T: 01952 200198

E: hello@lifos.co.uk

W: www.lifos.co.uk

Midas Productions (UK) Ltd

Unit 1, Uplandside, Manor Road, Clopton, Suffolk, IP13 6SH

T: 0333 772 0772

M: 07949 007 603

E: info@midas-uk.co.uk

Newburn Power Rental Limited

Unit 36 Lidgate Crescent, Langthwaite Business Park, South Kirkby, Pontefract, WF9 3NR

T: 0845 077 6693

E: info@npr-uk.com

Power Events

T: 01277 424800

E: enquiries@powerevents.co.uk

W: www.powerevents.co.uk

Power Revolution

23C Shepherds Grove Ind Est, Stanton Bury St Edmunds, IP31 2AR

T: 01359 256 265

E: info@power-revolution.co.uk

W: www.power-revolution.co.uk

Progen Power Ltd

Belvedere House, Pynes Hill, Exeter,Devon, EX2 5WS

T: 0330 165 5720

E: info@progenpower.co.uk

W: www.progenpower.co.uk

Robert Blezard Electrical Contractor Ltd

T: 01200 777666

E: hello@robertblezard.co.uk

W: www.robertblezard.co.uk

Stuart Power Ltd

Stuart House, Hargham Road, Shropham, Norfolk, NR17 1DT

T: 01953 454540

E: enquiries@stuartpower.co.uk

W: www.stuartpower.co.uk

Summit Power

T: 0333 0349433

E: enquiries@summitpower.co.uk

W: https://summitpower.co.uk/

Tempower

T: 0845 6066049

E: hire@tempower.co.uk

W: www.tempower.co.uk

Wernick Power Solutions

Joseph House, Northgate Way, Aldridge, Walsall, WS9 8ST

T: 03334 001 247

E: power@wernick.co.uk

W: www.wernick.co.uk/power : twitter.com/WernickGroup : www.linkedin.com/company/wernickgroup

PRINTERS

UK Flyers

Suite 210, Victory House, Somers Road, North Portsmouth, HampshirePO1 1PJ

T: 023 9229 3050

E: sales@ukflyers.com

W: www.ukflyers.com

PRODUCTION AND PROJECT SUPPORT

PROJECTION

Smartrad Creative Ltd

5 George Street, Snaith, DN14 9HY smartradcreativeprojects@gmail.com www.smartrad.org

T: 07711469787

EMF Technology LTD

Projection Mapping, Water Screens, Flame Effects, Lighting, Mains Distribution

T: 020 8003 3344

E: info@emftechnology.co.uk

W: www.emftechnology.co.uk

RADIO COMMUNICATIONS

2CL Communications Ltd

Unit C, Woodside Trade Centre, Parnham Drive, Eastleigh, Hampshire, SO50 4NU

T: 0800 389 2278

E: contact@2cl.co.uk

W: www.2cl.co.uk

Audiolink

T: 020 8955 1100

E: info@audiolink.co.uk

E: hire@audiolink.co.uk

W: www.audiolink.co.uk

DCRS

Edison Road, St.Ives, Cambs, PE27 3LH

T: 0800 043 2688

E: sales@dcrs.co.uk

W: www.dcrs.co.uk

SFL Mobile Radio

6 Woodway Court, Thursby Road

Bromsborough, CH62 3PR

T: 0151 334 9160

E: sales@sflmobileradio.co.uk

W: www.sflmobileradio.co.uk/

REFRIGERATED STRUCTURES

Dawsongroup tcs

Export Drive, Sutton-in-Ashfield, Nottinghamshire NG17 6AF

Dawsongroup | tcs

T: 01623 518538

E: info@dgtcs.co.uk

W: https://dgtcs.co.uk/inflatable-cold-rooms/

REUSABLE CUPS

Re-uz UK Less is now Limited

Unit 1A Walrow Industrial estate, Commerce Way, Highbridge TA9 4AG

T: 01278 238390

E: info.uk@reuz.com

W: www.re-uz.com & www.green-goblet.com

SEATING

Ace Seating Hire

T: 01832 279333

E: info@aceseating.co.uk

W: www.aceseating.co.uk

SECURITY

DBD Group Services

T: 01934 286000 and 07955314124

E: info@dbdgroupservices.co.uk

W: www.dbdgroupservices.co.uk

Newman Event Services Ltd

Crowd Management, Festival & Event Security/Stewarding.

Bloxham Mill, Barford Road, Bloxham, Oxfordshire, OX15 4FF

T: 01295 722844

E: enquiries@newmanevents.co.uk

W: www.newmanevents.co.uk

Right Guard Security

Experts in Crowd Management and Event Security

T: 01227 464588

E: info@rightguard.co.uk

W: www.rightguard.co.uk

Trojan Security

Unit B7 Loughton Seedbed Centre

Langston Road

Loughton IG10 3TQ

T: 0330 113 9966

E: info@trojansecurityuk.co.uk

W: www.trojansecurityuk.co.uk : @trojan-security-uk-ltd : @TrojanLondon :@trojan_security_UK

WH Management Group

PO Box 230, Heathfield, East Sussex, TN21 1DX

T: 01889 500 164

E: info@whmg.co.uk

W: www.whmg.co.uk

SET & SCENERY CONSTRUCTION

Staged Events Ltd

Meadow View, Newnham Lane, Old Basing, Hampshire, RG24 7AU

T: 01256578055

E: info@stagedevents.com

W: www.stagedevents.com

SHOWERS

SITE SUPPLIES

Zoo Events Group Ltd

Stockton Dairy, Stockton, Warminster, BA12 OSQ

T: 01258 840233

E: info@zooeventsgroup.co.uk

W: www.zooeventsgroup.co.uk

Concept Products Ltd

10 Cary Court, Somerton Business Park, Somerton, TA11 6SB

T: 01458 274020

E: ben@conceptproductsltd.co.uk

W: www.conceptproductsltd.co.uk

STAGING & RIGGING

IPS (Impact Production Services)

29 Mount Avenue, Bletchley, Milton Keynes, MK1 1LS

T: 01908 657950

E: enquiries@ips.co.uk

W: www.ips.co.uk

Rigger.co.uk

T: 0333 772 0120

E: contact@rigger.co.uk

W: www.rigger.co.uk

The Stage Bus 19 Prestwood Road, Birmingham, B29 5EB

T: 0121 585 9264

E: info@thestagebus.com

W: www.thestagebus.com

Steeldeck Rentals

Unit 58, T. Marchant Estate, 42 - 72 Verney Rd, London SE16 3DH

T: +44 (0)207 833 2031

E: rentals@steeldeck.co.uk

W: www.steeldeck.co.uk

TEMPORARY ROADWAYS

Cap Trac Limited

TEMPORARY STRUCTURES

Fews Marquees

Chessgrove Park, Ditchford Bank Road, Hanbury, Bromsgrove, Worcestershire, B60 4HS

T: 01527 821789

E: info@fews.co.uk

W: www.fewsmarquees.co.uk

Gigtent UK

Sonas House, Button End Harston, Cambridge, CB22 7NX

E: info@gigtent.co.uk

W: www.gigtent.co.uk

LH Woodhouse

Wolds Farm, The Fosse, Cotgrave, Nottingham, NG12 3HG

Delivering successful events

T: 01159 899 899

E: sales@lhwoodhouse.co.uk

W: www.lhwoodhouse.co.uk

Losberger De Boer

Castle Park, Boundary Road, Brackley, Northamptonshire, NN13 7ES

T: 01280 846500

E: sales.uk@losbergerdeboer.com

W: www.losbergerdeboer.com/uk

NEPTUNUS Ltd

Cob Drive, Swan Valley, Northampton NN4 9BB

T: 01604 593820

E: sales@neptunus.co.uk

W: www.neptunus.co.uk

Stunning Tents

Creative House, Station Road, Theale RG7 4PD

T: 0118 380 5590

E: team@stunningtents.co.uk

W: www.Stunningtents.co.uk

Tentickle Stretch Tents UK Ltd

Langley Brook Business Park, Unit 3B London Rd, Tamworth, B78 2BP

T: 0121 7401385

M: 07826 843099

E: jorg@tentickle-stretchtents.co.uk

W: www.tentickle-stretchtents.co.uk

The Dome Company

T: 07876673354

E: info@thedomecompany.co.uk

W: www.thedomecompany.co.uk

The Halo Group

T: 020 787703210

E: info@thehalogroup.co.uk

W: www.thehalogroup.co.uk

TT Tents Ltd

North Waltham Business Centre, Basingstoke, Hampshire, RG25 2DJ

T: 01256 397 551

E: sales@tttents.co.uk

W: www.tttents.co.uk

The Stables, Loke Farm, Weston Longville, Norwich, NR9 5LG

T: 01603 880448

E: info@captrac.co.uk

W: www.captrac.co.uk

TRACKWAY

Worldwide Structures Ltd

Ayrshire Farm, Sharcott, Pewsey, SN9 5PA

T: 01672 565 060 / +44 (0) 7875 027369

E: enquiries@w-sl.com

W: www.worldwidestructures.com

All Weather Access Ltd

County Farm, High Roding, Dunmow, Essex CM6 1NQ

T: 01371 700510

M: 07801 751137

E: henry@all-weatheraccess.co.uk

W: www.all-weatheraccess.co.uk

TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT

Event Traffic Control Ltd

Baldersby Gardens, Ripon Road, Baldersby, Thirsk, North Yorkshire, YO7 4PS

T: 08000 246 800

E: info@eventtc.com

W: www.eventtc.com

Right Guard Traffic Management

Event Traffic Management

VEHICLE HIRE

CSAS Accredited Traffic Officers

Car Parking

Event Signage

T: 01227 464588

E: info@rightguard.co.uk

W: www.rightguard.co.uk

Bradshaw Event Vehicles

New Lane, Stibbington, Peterborough, PE8 6LW

T: 01780 782621

E: enquiries@eventvehicles.co.uk

W: www.eventvehicles.co.uk

Twitter: @Bradshaw_EV

VENUE MAPPING

Iventis

Think Tank, University of Lincoln, Ruston Way, Lincoln, LN6 7FL

T: 01522 837205

E: info@iventis.co.uk

Eamon Kerrigan: E: Eamon.kerrigan@iventis.co.uk

W: www.iventis.co.uk

VENUES

Farnborough International Exhibition and Conference centre

T: +44 (0) 1252 532800

E: event-enquiries@farnborough.com

W: www.farnborough.com/ : @farnborough-international-ltd

: @Farnborough_Int

: @farnborough_int

: @farnboroughinternational/

: @farnboroughinternationalex4694

WASTE MANAGEMENT

D C Site Services Ltd

Fenland District Industrial Estate Station Road, Whittlesey Peterborough PE7 2EY

T: 01733 200 713

E: info@dcsiteservices.com

W: www.dcsiteservices.com

Falcon Cleaning

The Falcon Nest, Unit 10 & 11, Lower Gower Road, Royston SG8 5EA

E: admin@falconteam.co.uk

W: www.falconteam.co.uk

WATER & PLUMBING SERVICES

MTD (UK & Ireland) Ltd

Unit 1 Westerngate, Hillmead Enterprise Park, Langley Road, Swindon, SN5 5WN

T: 01264 773 818

E: sales.uk@mtd.net

W: www.mtd.net

Temporary Water Solutions

Water supplies for festivals and events

T: 0800 001 6041

E: info@temporarywatersolutions.co.uk

Water Direct

T: 0345 345 1725

E: enquiries@water-direct.co.uk

W: www.water-direct.co.uk

Wicked Event Water Services

Kevin: 07909 771996

E: info@wickedeventwaterservices.com

W: www.wews.biz

WIFI, INTERNET & STREAMING

Fli-Fi Ltd

UK Wide

T: 020 3778 0454

E: enquiries@fli-fi.com

W: www.fli-fi.com

SimpliWifi

Unit 13, Leominster Enterprise Park, Leominster, Herefordshire, Hr6 0LX

T: 0800 298 9434

E:  hello@simpliwifi.agency

W: https://simpliwifi.agency

Editor Caroline Clift caroline@standoutmagazine.co.uk

Publication manager

Sarah Bourne sarah@standoutmagazine.co.uk

Account executives

Jen Crisp jen@standoutmagazine.co.uk

Holley Wilkinson holley@standoutmagazine.co.uk

Marketing executive

Katie Goldsmith marketing@standoutmagazine.co.uk

Design and production

Neil Hepden

Jemma Heslop

Colin Swaffer

Emma Hickman studio@standoutmagazine.co.uk

Digital and web developer

Matthew Coppard

Credit control

Janine Walmsley creditcontrol@standoutmagazine.co.uk

Managing director

Neil Fagg neil@standoutmagazine.co.uk T: 01795 509101

CEO John Denning

StandOut Multimedia Limited, 10 The Metford, Evegate Business Park, Smeeth, Ashford, Kent, TN25 6SX T: 01795 509113 www.standoutmagazine.co.uk

No part of this magazine may be reproduced or stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form – electronic, mechanical or physical – without express prior permission and written consent of the publisher. Contributions are invited and when not accepted will be returned only if accompanied by a fully stamped and addressed envelope. Manuscripts should be typewritten. No responsibility can be taken for drawings, photographs or literary contributions during transmission or in the editor’s hands. In the absence of an agreement the copyright of all contributions, literary, photographic or artistic, belongs to StandOut Multimedia Limited. The Publisher accepts no responsibility in respect of advertisements appearing in the magazine and the opinions expressed in editorial material or otherwise do not necessarily represent the views of the Publisher. The Publisher cannot accept liability for any loss arising from the late appearance or non publication of any advertisement. Information about products and services featured within the editorial content does not imply an endorsement by StandOut magazine. © 2024. StandOut Multimedia Limited, 3 The Metford, Evegate Business Park, Smeeth, Ashford, Kent, TN25 6SX

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Jack Willis has worked in events for five years but is new to freelancing. Here, he shares his first steps and experiences into his freelancing journey

WINTER WONDERLANDS

Organisers of winter events and festive experiences share their lessons learned and reveal what it is that’s making their events successful

Your Answer to Security