Business Events Africa May 2018 Vol 38 No 5 by Contact Publications

www.businesseventsafrica.com

Voice of the Business Events Industry in Africa

Vol 38 No 5 May 2018

Hayward’s CIRCA 1990

G RAND S AFARI C OMPANY South Africa • Botswana • Namibia • East Africa

Big Game Luxury Safari Adventures

IT TAKES A VILLAGE ‘It takes a village’ and SAACI Congress 2018 welcomes business events industry members to join the village by attending the flagship event of the business events calendar. Raise your game at SAACI 2018 - through learning, networking and communication. This congress brings together professionals from a variety of conference industry sectors including conference and event organisers, events management companies, service providers and industry stakeholders representing government, venues, destinations and more.

CONGRESS DETAILS When: 29 - 31 July 2018 Where: Misty Hills Conference Centre Johannesburg Host: Southern Africa Association for the Conference Industry (SAACI)

SAACI is focused on raising the bar in the business events industry across all member interactions and in so creating true, tangible value to our members and the greater industry in Southern Africa. Don’t miss out on this two-day congress packed with inspirational keynotes, expert panel discussions, innovative networking opportunities, fun social programmes and a lot of new, fresh ideas.

For more info contact: RIPCORD PROMOTIONS: TEL: 011 482 2835 INFO@SAACICONGRESS.ORG OR SAACI2018@RIPCORD.ZA.COM OR SAACI HEAD OFFICE: TEL: 011 880 5883 | INFO@SAACI.ORG

www.saacicongress.org

Business Events Africa: Serving the business events industry for 38 years

CONTENTS

VOL 38 NO 5 MAY 2018

Special Features 20 REPORT BACK | AFRICA’S TRAVEL INDABA 2018

About the cover Hayward’s Grand Safari Company: Big Game Luxury Safari Adventures with the world’s leading mobile safari outfitter

Adventure, big game wildlife experiences, wide open spaces and Africa’s untamed mystery all make for unparalleled big group luxury leisure and business environments when on a private mobile safari with Hayward’s Grand Safari Company.

The significance of tourism to Africa and its economy was once again cemented at this year’s Africa’s Travel Indaba with delegates from 80 countries in attendance. Overall registrations reached the 7 000 mark, resulting in an increase of four per cent from last year’s figures.

22 VENUE OF THE MONTH | MONATE GAME LODGE Nestled amidst manicured gardens on a 2 000-hectare malaria-free private game reserve a stone’s throw from Modimolle, Limpopo, Monate Game Lodge is a tranquil haven. A mere two-hour drive from both Johannesburg and even less from Pretoria, it is the venue of choice for conferencing, weddings or corporate weekend getaway.

26 EXHIBITION GREENING: TO GREEN OR NOT TO GREEN As an ethical and responsible association, the Exhibition and Events Association of Southern Africa (EXSA) has a vested interest in promoting sustainability in our industry. As our members subscribe to our code of conduct, it goes without saying that they are perfectly situated as brand ambassadors of exhibition and event greening.

The authority on meetings, exhibitions, special events and incentives management

Venue highlights

Published by the proprietor Contact Publications (Pty) Ltd (Reg No. 1981/011920/07)

HEAD OFFICE PHYSICAL ADDRESS: Suite 1, Fields Shopping Centre, Old Main Road, Kloof 3610

32 Silverstar: An all-round conference offering.

34 Birchwood: The complete package.

Features 4 Editor’s comment: Business events continues to leave its mark. 5 News: Peermont goes all in to make a big impact. 17 Executive chef: Joe Owen keeps it fresh and simple. 18 Local perspective: Broader government support needed to double jobs. 29 Top tips: 5 ways to improve the eco status of an event. 30 Tech watch: Harness technology to super charge attendee experience. 36 Letsema La Bana at the Rand Show.

HEAD OFFICE POSTAL ADDRESS: PO Box 414, Kloof 3640, South Africa TEL: +27 31 764 6977 FAX: 086 762 1867 PUBLISHER: Godfrey King gk@contactpub.co.za

38 Service focus: Help is but a phone call away. 40

Personality profile Robyn D’Alessandro: This industry is not

for sissies. 41 SAACI news. 42 AAXO news. 43 SITE news. 44 ExpoGuys grows African portfolio. 44 Index of advertisers. 45 Calendar. 46 Directory & associations of interest to the industry. 48 Last word: Crossing borders with events.

estination D feature 24 Host your next memorable event at Spier.

MANAGING DIRECTOR: Malcolm King malcolm@contactpub.co.za EDITOR: Irene Costa gomesi@iafrica.com PRODUCTION & DESIGN EDITOR: Hayley Mendelow hayley@contactpub.co.za DISTRIBUTION MANAGER: Jackie Goosen jackie@contactpub.co.za SALES REPRESENTATIVES: Pierre Grobler | +27 (0)82 900 4026 pierre@businesseventsafrica.com Colleen McCann | +27 (0)72 148 1657 colleen@businesseventsafrica.com Ruth Baldwin | +27 (0)72 897 6752 ruth@businesseventsafrica.co.za PUBLICATION DETAILS: Volume 38 No 5 Business Events Africa has 12 issues a year and is published monthly, with the Yearbook in June. Printed by

, a division of Novus Holdings

52 Mahogany Road, Westmead www.paarlmedia.co.za ANNUAL SUBSCRIPTION RATE: R680 which includes postage, packaging and VAT. Rates for addresses outside South Africa can be obtained on application to the Subscription Department.

publishers of Business Events Africa, is a member of:

South African National Convention Bureau

Business Events Africa, in collaboration with the South Africa National Convention Bureau, proudly present their latest supplement.

Meetings Africa 2018 exceeded expectations in terms of visitor experience and quality of exhibitors and hosted buyers, and shows a tangible ROI. Here we present show stats and feedback Africa’s premier business events trade show, and take a look at its impact on the local business events industry and Africa as a whole.

Integrity | Intelligence | Innovation | Sustainability

Official media partner

Official Journal of the Southern Africa Chapter of the Society for Incentive Travel Excellence

@bizeventsafrica

Official journal of the Exhibition & Event Association of Southern Africa

Business Events Africa

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Editor’s comment

Business events

ur industry, the business events industry, is phenomenal. It is made of the most amazing people, products, suppliers and venues. This month I celebrated 14 years with the magazine. It feels like just the other day that I joined the team. It has definitely been the most amazing journey. The business events sector is like no other as it really does leave a mark and make a positive impact on society. Over the years I have learnt so much about how the industry ticks, but the one thing that always makes it special is definitely the people and the relationships. In this edition, Robyn D’Alessandro from Gearhouse shares with us her journey in the industry. I’ve known her for many years but I was blown away by her experience and journey in the sector. What I have come to realise is that every individual in this sector

plays a fundamental role in the bigger picture of this industry. The impact the individuals make is invaluable but the impact the business events congresses, exhibitions, incentives and events make are really remarkable. In this edition we continue to work with the South Africa National Convention Bureau. This time we look at Meetings Africa 2018 and its impact on our local industry and Africa as a whole. The numbers speak for themselves: this show really does leave a positive mark and the ROI is tangible. What I have also realised is that the industry has in many ways matured over the last 14 years. There is definitely a strong move to professionalising the industry, improving service delivery and a definite move to greening and sustainability. A few years ago, I would have said greening and sustainability was just a

Work Well Package WORK WELL IN A CLUTTER-FREE MEETING Full Day Conference includes 3 Tea and Coffee Refreshment Breaks, Lunch, Venue Hire, WiFi, and more! To book, please contact Group Reservations on +27.21.412.9999 or email 01445.groupreservations@westin.com. To learn more, visit westincapetown.com

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R550 per person

* Terms & Conditions apply: Conference Rooms are subject to hotel availability. The Package is available from 01st April 2018 – 31 December 2018

Credit: Hein Liebetrau

continues to leave its mark fad, but not any more. I suppose it means like the industry, I too have matured. Today, I see the need to become greener and more sustainable. We really do need to be more mindful of our impact on the environment, not just for ourselves but also for future generations. Every person I’ve met in this sector has left an indelible mark in my life, in some way or an other. Here’s to many more years in this incredible industry!

Irene

Email: gomesi@iafrica.com

News

Peermont goes all in to

make a big impact Peermont Hotels, Casinos and Resorts is an award-winning hospitality and gaming company that is making a positive effect on the communities that its business impacts and the environment at large, investing in a number of projects and programmes aimed at sustainable development for South Africa, Malawi and Botswana, and its people.

wo of the group’s most notable and proud achievements are the establishment of the Peermont Hotel School (PHS), a programme aimed at helping young people from disadvantaged backgrounds enter the hospitality industry, and Peermont’s pioneering rooftop solar plant initiative, making use of unused rooftop space at Peermont’s flagship property Emperors Palace Hotels, Casino, Convention and Entertainment Resort in Johannesburg, South Africa, to create a fully-fledged solar plant.

Pioneering energy-saving solutions

After investigating various alternative energy-saving solutions, analysing the benefits and evaluating available space at Emperors Palace, it was decided that a solar system, installed along the northern rooftop slopes of the property, was the most efficient, affordable and realistic option, yielding the most return on investment. With that, it was decided to go ahead with the project at the beginning of 2017, with over R50 million invested in the project so far and the second phase of this massive rooftop solar energy project already complete. To date, the plant has delivered a total aggregate energy production of 5 198 000 kWh, with a total collective CO reduction of 5 094 tons. This equates to an accumulative financial yield of R5 481 397 since it was first installed in early 2017, delivering R4 364 553 savings for 2017 alone. Phase 3 of the project was completed at the end of April, which will see more additional rooftop spaces populated with solar energy panels. “From the many community upliftment initiatives run across most Peermont www.businesseventsafrica.com

Peermont maintenance manager, Jannie Roos, Terra Firma Solutions business manager, Ben Snyman and Peermont hospitality executive, Dave Milne.

properties to its environmental policies and efforts, Peermont has always been committed to making positive change and ensuring a better future for all,” said Dave Miline, group hotel and resort executive. “We look forward to many more years of service to the communities that surround our business, as well as many more pioneering and cutting-edge plans and projects that will continue to bolster Peermont’s reputation as a positive contributor to society.”

Educating youth in local communities

Established in May 2016 by the Peermont Community Benefit Trust in partnership with service provider Celo, the PHS celebrated its first group of graduates in 2017, many of who came from challenging backgrounds and poor communities. Many of these students went on to join leading hospitality businesses and institutions after graduating, with

some staying on to work as part of the Peermont family, thanks to the education and expertise gained at PHS. Peermont offers learners from the Ekurhuleni region a 12-month bursary to train under hospitality industry professionals to gain practical insight into vital roles within the industry. Each group of 72 learners spends two of the 12 months training at the school based at Emperors Palace, two months at Emperors Palace working alongside the hotel’s world-class staff, and eight months with various industry partners, in order to hone their skills as chefs, restaurant service staff and housekeeping staff. The training is designed to challenge the learners by placing them in working environments relevant to their chosen hospitality department to teach them valuable skills while on the job. Learners receive a Skills Proficiency Certificate for successfully completing the course, which will give them access to the marketplace and boost their employability across the industry. Business Events Africa May 2018 5

Cover story | Hayward’s Grand Safari Company

Big Game Luxury Safari Adventures Adventure, big game wildlife experiences, wide open spaces and Africa’s untamed mystery all make for unparalleled big group luxury leisure and business environments when on a private mobile safari with Hayward’s Grand Safari Company.

in your destination on the map for your next big group travel adventure in South Africa, Botswana or Namibia, and owner and adventure extraordinaire Peter Hayward and his experienced team of safari outfitters galvanise to bring you your first five-star safari experience in some of the most remote, untouched natural habitats on the continent. Arrive by

6 Business Events Africa May 2018

helicopter, camel, hot air balloon, vintage train or 4x4 vehicles and you are met with all the style and elegance of a classic tented safari camp complete with five-star presidential tented accommodation, your own private butler, silver service dining over 22-course taste sensations, full brand launch and conference facilities and daily adventure encounters which will remain imprinted on your memory forever.

For the past 20 years, Hayward’s has played host to leaders and visionaries the likes of Nelson Mandela, who chose to retreat to a private game reserve in the Waterberg Mountains to write one of his remarkable books about his journey to freedom. Over the years, blue chip corporates and celebrities such as Investec, Ferrari, Dire Straits, Mariah Carey, Creedence

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Cover story | Hayward’s Grand Safari Company

Hayward’s Credentials: The only mobile safari tented expe dition company with an official tourism grading rating of five stars.

Clearwater Revival and European royalty have journeyed in Africa on an authentic Hayward’s mobile safari expedition. “In 1820, 25 years before the famous explorer David Livingstone arrived in Africa, my great, great grandfather James Hayward, who was just 24 years old, stepped ashore at Algoa Bay to begin an adventure into uncharted territory, and so unwittingly played a founding role in the building of this new era of adventure into wild frontiers. Today, we are proud to say Hayward’s remains the only mobile five-star rated safari outfitter on the continent. “We believe our offering is unique. The safari, which means ‘to journey’, is the oldest form of accommodation. Everyone has a spiritual connection to it; it’s in our DNA memory, much like the sound of soft falling rain. At Hayward’s, we’re dedicated to making unsurpassed lifetime memories in Big 5 reserves across the continent.

Events saw fit to bring their 2016 Global Rally comprising more than 10 000 delegates from 20 countries to South African shores. A preconference delegation of 70 of the global leadership team spent three days at Hayward’s Grand Safari Company in the Dinokeng region in Gauteng. “I chose an African safari experience because of the diverse nationalities and cultures represented by our leaders from around the globe. While we don’t like to talk about budgets because for us the ‘experience’ comes first, Hayward’s delivered what we wanted for a fair price. It was a joy to partner with Haywards. We wanted ‘an experience like no other’ for our guests and we got

Hayward’s has, since its inceptio n in 1999, consistently achieved a 9.6 out of 10 guest rating across 22 points of measure ment. W orld Travel Awards 2017 winn er for World’s Best Operator in the category. Sanlam Top Destinations 2017 winn er for Best Five-star Lodge. Safari Awards 2016 and 2017 winn er for Best Mobile Safari Operator in South Africa and Highly Commended Mobile Safa ri Operator in Africa. Hayward’s is the only South Afric an company to win the EIBTM (Switzerland) Best Event In The World trophy in 2005, The Thebe Best Special Event 2007, and the Imvelho Responsible Tourism Awards for Best Overall Environmental Program 2005, 2006 and 2007.

“What differentiates Hayward’s from their competitors is their people, the care and the attention to details. It was a world apart from the usual event hotel and much more authentic and culturally rich.” – Nick Woodward-Shaw

Your five-star out of Africa experience An astonishing 95 per cent of the world’s top executives have never experienced a luxury grand safari expedition to see the Big 5 wildlife in their natural environment. With outdated visions of novice camp outs and budget-focused safari glamping being peddled across the web, it’s not surprising it doesn’t place first on the bucket list of industry leaders and influencers. Explaining the Safari concept, Peter Hayward says: “We offer an experience that gets a group to think beyond everyday conceptual boundaries. When you take people out of their traditional environments you encourage them to engage and create. It’s like the San who invented their own type of bow and arrow in order to hunt effectively; suddenly new frontiers are forged for group participants in more ways than one.”

it. For any event, from the moment you are met at the destination’s airport to the moment you set foot back home, it’s about the entire experience. The attention to detail and personal service exceeded our expectations. Hayward’s is a five-star experience. The cuisine was an exceptional culinary encounter, as was the attention to very tiny details, the knowledge of the staff, the activities, the accommodation…it all contributed to an exceptional experience for everyone.”

World-class service and authenticity

Wildlife at its best towards sustainable tourism

USA-based Forever Living’s Nick Woodward-Shaw, vice president of Global

“Most of the VIP and luxury travel leaders we deal with are sourcing travel

www.businesseventsafrica.com

Hayward’s offers exclusive: ccess into wilderness areas not A accessible to the general public. istinctive events and mobile safaris for D large private groups of between 40 and 200 guests. otal group exclusivity and bespoke T itineraries which epitomise an era of exploration, adventure and style. I nternationally acclaimed chefs for a visual and taste sensation delivered with Silver Service proficiency, according to menus of your preference F ive-star graded comfort in a mobile tented camp (the only one in Africa). dventure experiences and unique A itinerary themed events from experts around the culture and history of the region.

Business Events Africa May 2018 7

Cover story | Hayward’s Grand Safari Company North West Cape Province: The Kalahari A private game reserve situated in the Kalahari, covering 100 000 ha of wilderness boasts 70 species of mammals including lion, cheetah, desert rhino, sable and roan antelope and meerkat, with more than 200 bird species. Guided walks meander across silent red dunes, with open-sided safari vehicles traversing the Kalahari wilderness and stopping at the most scenic spots to allow visitors to enjoy an impressive sunset or splendid bush dinner. experiences and destinations that gives them access to parts of world that carry an often urgent time/date stamp on them. Modern day tycoons and affluent entrepreneurs are turning away from the materialism of the past that saw them owning snake skin shoes and ermine fur coats; instead they are looking at experiences of a diminishing world where they have access to nature that remains rare and untrampled by man’s devastation. “We act as the ‘matchmakers’ between those intact experiences and the client’s taste for luxury living while on a #GrandSafari in Africa where wildlife and the environment remains pristine, untouched and unharmed. You could be enjoying an 8-course silver service meal with a group of business associates

We arrange: Transfers and shuttles into camp whether by car, helicopter, balloon flight, horse or camel back. Game guides and game viewing vehicles to see the Big 5 in unique wilderness reserves. All staff, food requirements, dietary catering, bar and hospitality add-ons such as theme dinners, in camp activities, team building and wandering picnics and sundowners. Camp security 24/7. All audiovisual equipment, conference tents and technical staff. All entertainment, artists, musicians, stage and lighting, theme décor from expert and specialist speakers to a symphony orchestra playing under the night sky. Pillow gifts and room drop items. Exclusive and private safari events over a choice of southern Africa’s most pristine wilderness areas with in-camp communications and Wi-Fi. Dedicated senior management on every safari event or expedition to ensure your safari planning works from start to finish.

8 Business Events Africa May 2018

or friends and family while camped 400 metres away from a rhino group, but when we deconstruct camp we leave absolutely no trace behind.”

Sacred Safari Experiences: Hayward’s Safari Sanctuary The acclaimed headquarters of Hayward’s Grand Safari Company is set within the Big 5 Dinokeng region, just one hour’s drive from Johannesburg. Enjoy a top-drawer VIP Gentlemen’s Safari experience in total privacy and exclusivity within a private nature reserve best for shorter stays and blue chip brand launches and chairman’s award dinners.

North West Province Pilanesberg National Park This magnificent 65 000 hectare reserve boasts incredible sightings of the largest, the fastest and some of the most endangered species on earth. The Pilanesberg is a mere 90 minutes scenic and adventure filled drive from Johannesburg with good sightings of rhino, elephant and lion. Sun City is a few minutes’ drive away for those wishing to enjoy a round of golf or other activities on offer.

Limpopo Province: Kruger National Park Experience a beautiful, quiet, elephant-rich area in the northern region of the Kruger following a quick 45-minute charter flight from Johannesburg to Phalaborwa. Expect outstanding encounters with the Big 5.

Botswana: The Okavango Delta The Okavango is a magical water world set in a lush environment, offering a unique experience in Africa. Over the aeons the Okavango River has spread its rich sediment over a huge, almost flat area, in the shape of a giant panhandle. It now forms the world’s largest inland delta, containing 95 per cent of all Botswana’s surface water. Around its perimeter are ideal trails and magnificent campsites.

Namibia: Exploration Of The Namib Desert Expect a truly exhilarating and off-thewall big group safari. From the moment your group is met at Walvis Bay with a fleet of 4x4s you will know this is not your average safari experience. Days are filled with excursions on quad bikes, horses or camels or 4x4 to participate in adventurous pastimes such as saltwater fly fishing, para-sailing, micro lighting, hot air ballooning, boating excursions, desert golf and dune boarding.

Choose your own location! Hayward’s can set up camp on private land for private functions, or head to one of Africa’s amazing phenomenon such as the annual wild flower display in Namaqualand, the amazing migrations of Tanzania and Kenya, the turtle season along the Indian Ocean or the sardine run along the Wild Coast. It’s your event, so why not choose to do something your guests will never forget?

KwaZulu-Natal: Isimangaliso Wetland Park A unique safari combining inland estuaries and lakes and a marine park along the Indian Ocean within the world’s biggest wetland reserve, home to hippopotamus, Nile crocodile, Zambezi shark, rhino, elephant and herds of antelope. Experience the Big 6 in a true Hemingway-style safari.

www.haywardsafaris.com www.businesseventsafrica.com

Shared Economies

When shared minds come together, we advance Africa

When shared minds 27-28 FEBRUARY 2018: come together, EXHIBITION we advance Africa. SANDTON CONVENTION CENTRE 26 FEBRUARY 2018: BONDAY

www.meetingsafrica.co.za : BONDAY 26 FEBRUARY 2018

27-28 FEBRUARY 2018:

EXHIBITION SANDTON CONVENTION CENTRE JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA

JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA

www.businesseventsafrica.com

Business Events Africa May 2018 9

SANCB | Meetings Africa 2018

Meetings

Africa 2018

Meetings Africa has earned its place as Africa’s premier business events trade show. The show attracts quality buyers from around the world and superior business events products and services from across the continent. By Irene Costa, editor of Business Events Africa

eetings Africa has grown significantly since its inception in 2005. It has become the preferred meeting place for the industry, offering exhibitors from across Africa. Delegates who attended the show were treated to a robust event programme catering to buyers and exhibitors. Certain classic elements of the Meetings Africa programme were retained in 2018, while other aspects will be refined to make the show better and more impactful. Without a doubt, one of my favourite business events trade shows of the year, Meetings Africa 2018 exceeded expectations in terms of visitor experience, and quality of exhibitors and hosted buyers. Business Events Africa, in partnership with the South Africa National Convention Bureau, continues to run a series of supplements.

10 Business Events Africa May 2018

Amanda Kotze-Nhlapo, chief convention bureau officer of the South Africa National Convention Bureau: “The meetings industry’s contribution to jobs and GDP is not just a South African story but an African one too,” said Amanda Kotze-Nhalpo, Chief Convention Bureau Officer of the South Africa National Convention Bureau, which hosts Meetings Africa on behalf of South African Tourism. “To advance this sector, the Meetings Africa event is geared to also enhance the collaboration between African countries and African associations so as to create more shared economic benefits for the continent’s business events sector.”

Senthil Gopinath, Middle East and Africa regional Director at the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA), who attended the exhibition, agreed: “It is about co-operating first, and then competing. This makes the African industry stronger and better, with an increased economic impact.”

Themed ‘Shared Economies’, Meetings Africa 2018 celebrated its 13th edition of the exhibition. With business events sustaining over 200 000 jobs and the meetings sector alone contributing R115 billion to South Africa’s GDP, the sector has been identified as key to the country’s and continent’s tourism growth.

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SANCB | Meetings Africa 2018

FAST FACTS DATE: 26 to 28 February 2018 VENUE: Sandton Convention Centre in Johannesburg THEME: Shared Economies

3 000 delegates. 306 business events

exhibitors – 21 African countries, with 65 of these exhibitors coming from outside South Africa.

Who does it attract?

Tourism Incentive Programme (TIP)

The exhibition attracts buyers and visitors from around the world who are interested in doing business in South Africa and indeed the rest of the African continent.

15 South African small businesses from across the country received bespoke training and insights on accessing the global business events market and its shared economic opportunities, and were also given an opportunity to exhibit at the show.

154 business and trade media representatives.

420 buyers (hosted

and non-hosted) from 45 countries in attendance.

6 400 business meetings

were confirmed – 30 per cent increase over 2017’s figure.

15 South African small

business exhibitors (SMMEs).

International hosted buyers qualification process FILTERS TO IMPROVE THE QUALIFICATION PROCESS Official hosted buyer partners: convention bureaus, destination marketing companies, SAT country managers, convention centres send invitation to apply

Hosted buyers to apply

Qualification process starts and comments are provided to the SANCB

Qualification to be discussed

Qualified buyers announced

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Unique codes to reduce rejections and improve quality: • Reduce the cost of the qualification process. • Improve the monitoring of applications. • Invite to go to pre-qualified buyers. Potential hosted buyers would apply using their unique codes. Once a code is used, it is deactivated to avoid sending it to any other buyer. There was a strong focus on

SANCB agrees, or disagrees with the outcome. If consensus is reached then the buyer gets a approval/ rejection notification.

water-wise tourism at the trade show, encouraging more responsible tourism, a practice that ties in aptly with Meetings Africa being a sustainable show.

Business Events Africa May 2018 11

SANCB | Meetings Africa 2018

Hosted buyer countries Argentina 1 Australia 5 Austria 1 Belgium 1 Brazil 13 Canada 3 China 21 Costa Rica 1 Czech Republic 2

Denmark Egypt France Germany Ghana India Israel Italy Kenya

1 6 8 7 1 12 3 3 1

Luxembourg Mexico Netherlands Norway Oman Poland Romania Russia Singapore

2 2 1 1 1 9 1 5 2

Spain Sweden Switzerland Tanzania Turkey UK Ukraine UAE USA

1 1 1 1 1 10 8 6 33

Hosted media 2018 MEDIA

ACTUAL

INTERNATIONAL

LOCAL

151

TOTAL

167 (exceeded)

African countries participation 2018

AFRICAN EXHIBITORS • Bostwana Tourism • Malawi Tourism • Arusha ICC: Tanzania • Mozambique • Rwanda CB • Zimbabwe Tourism Authority • Seychelles Tourism Board • Swaziland • KICC: Kenya • Uganda • Yala Safaris: Uganda • Happy Valley: Swaziland • UNECA, Ethiopia

12 Business Events Africa May 2018

* Malawi, Mozambique, Zimbabwe and Zambia are part of ** Additional exhibitors fall outside the borders of Africa * Malawi, Mozambique, Zimbabwe and Zambia are part of Southern Africa.

** Additional exhibitors fall outside the borders of Africa

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SANCB | Meetings Africa 2018

Hosted buyer ROI INTERNATIONAL HOSTED BUYERS

AFRICAN REGIONAL BUYERS

TOTAL

DELEGATES

159 467

25 162

184 629

DAYS

3 255

564

3 819

ROI

R3.3 billion

R3.2 billion

R6.5 billion

“Today, the Meetings Africa hosted buyer programme is one of the best, securing high-quality buyers who come to the show with a commitment to do business in South Africa and Africa. This hosted buyer programme delivers and ensures a high ROI for exhibitors.” – Irene Costa, editor, Business Events Africa

Hosted buyer final stats

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International hosted buyers

Actual: 176

African association buyers

Actual: 52

Local corporate buyers

Actual: 196

Business Events Africa May 2018 13

SANCB | Meetings Africa 2018

Business matchmaking Pending: 473

Total: 12 4 69 meeting requests

Cancelled: 2 798

51% of all meeting requests were confirmed.

22%

Confirmed: 6 398

51% Expired: 2 114

17%

Declined: 686

There will always be declined meetings due to a lack of meeting motivation and interest or participants being incorrectly targeted. Meeting organisers are encouraged to communicate strong meeting motivations. The cancelled meetings would be due to cancelled participants or unanswered requests which were cancelled to free timeslots for new requests.

Sustainability village

The SANCB is encouraging all international conference organisers hosting business events in the country to do away with traditional gifting and to use the sustainability village concept as a sustainable alternative. Not only does it enable responsible gifting, but it creates an exciting feature area that your international attendees will enjoy visiting. It’s also an affordable option, as you can select vendors whose stock falls within a price range that suits your budget. 14 Business Events Africa May 2018

The Meetings Africa 2018 vendors were: • Pone Creatives. • Skills Village 2030. • uBuntu Crafts. • African Mama Crafts. • Nyathi Arts Creations. • Tshinga Trading Enterprise. • Marabou Essentials. • Tokyo Ntombela. • Henry & Viv. • Galago. • Eco Smart. • Rain.

All vendors selected were required to meet the following criteria: • All crafts were to be made locally, within a 50 km radius of Gauteng. The only exception was Rain, who were brought on board to manage the bathroom activation, and in turn we provided them with a spot on the village. • All vendors were required to be black owned. In some cases, like Lise Kuhle from Eco Smart (Shwe), there is an exception, as she runs a co-op, but heads up the organisation. • Vendors were required to bring along items that were to the value of R100-R500 based on the vouchers we handed out to speakers and hosted buyers.

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SANCB | Meetings Africa 2018

Post tours PROVINCE

TITLE

START DATE

END DATE

NUMBER OF DAYS

PAX LIMIT

KwaZulu-Natal

Durban, Midlands & Drakensburg

01/03/2018

04/03/2018

KwaZulu-Natal

Durban and the adventure experience of the KwaZuluNatal South Coast

01/03/2018

03/03/2018

KwaZulu-Natal

An introduction to KwaZulu-Natal North Coast, St Lucia and Game Reserve Experience

01/03/2018

03/03/2018

Mpumalanga

Mpumalanga post tour

01/03/2018

03/03/2018

Northern Cape

Rejuvenate the soul in the beautiful Northern Cape

01/03/2018

04/03/2018

Limpopo

Limpopo post tour

01/03/2018

03/03/2018

North West

North West post tour

01/03/2018

03/03/2018

Western Cape

Association tour

01/03/2018

03/03/2018

Western Cape

Cape Overberg & Cape Winelands

01/03/2018

03/03/2018

Nelson Mandela Bay

Nelson Mandela Bay post tour

01/03/2018

03/03/2018

TOTAL

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Business Events Africa May 2018 15

SANCB | Meetings Africa 2018

Exhibitor feedback Mahmood Khatib, Chief Executive Officer of MK Tours & Travel Meetings Africa 2018 was very successful. I exhibited at Meetings Africa for the first time last year, and immediately found it provided my company with the boost it needed in the business events industry. I have since grown my company from 40 staff members to 115. This is a direct result of attending Meetings Africa. Last year it was a learning curve for me, but this year I was better prepared and organised for the show, and the spin-off has been new group business from other African countries.

Ronald Ngabo, MICE Sales Manager, Rwanda Convention Bureau We have been exhibiting at Meetings Africa since 2015. It is a great business events show for African destinations, and It brings quality buyers who are looking into venturing into Africa. The good thing is many of these buyers are already aware of our destination offerings. This year we got some really good, hot leads. The two that stand out are two conferences secured from the show, one for 2018 and one for 2019.

Meetings Africa is without a doubt the best business events show for African destinations, better than its international counterparts. It targets buyers who already do business in Africa and new buyers who are interested in doing business in Africa. This year we got some really good media exposure and were able to be interviewed by SABC. This interview was aired on the SABC national morning news. Rwanda will definitely attend Meetings Africa again, and would recommend it to all African countries interested in business events.

Minister Kganyago, Manager: Business Events Marketing, ATKV Resorts Meetings Africa for us as ATKV Resorts group is a great opportunity not only to sell our products within market spaces but to also to participate in the painting of Africa. We understand that the tourism industry is a space of product varieties that complement each other when it comes to painting of the African landscape. Resorts offer a very unique flavour in the venue spaces, and we feel it is important especially in today’s business events industry that such a product is made available within spaces where meetings and the coming together of people is discussed. We managed to get meaningful leads and also strengthened relationships with our already established clientele. We would definitely exhibit again. We have realised that more and more of the hosted buyers are looking for venues that are different and offer experiences. ATKV definitely ticks those boxes.

Rushdi Harper, Managing Director of Wow Travel & Tours I found Meetings Africa to be very successful, measured against other shows that I have attended. I had confirmed meetings of 10 per day, and about 90 per cent actually showed up.

16 Business Events Africa May 2018

Vendor feedback Nomaswazi Tinus, Founder and Director of African Mamas Crafts Being a part of the Sustainability Village at Meetings Africa 2018, with the theme of ‘Shared Economies’, was very exciting for us. It got us thinking about the impact and opportunities unlocked for SMMEs if all business events within the business events sector were hosted in a similar manner. It was definitely worthwhile and I would highly recommend it for others.

50 per cent of these were good leads, which were followed up after the event. Currently I am negotiating with 5 solid prospects from Brazil, Russia and Germany for Incentive & conference groups for

Lise Kuhle, Eco Smart (Shwe) Meetings Africa was a fantastic platform for us to showcase our travel and conference products to the industry. We received multiple leads and orders as a direct result of our involvement in the exhibition.

2019/2020. I would definitely attend this event each year as hosted buyers at this event are serious about having discussions for future business and not just showing up to make up the numbers.

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Executive chef

Joe Owen keeps it fresh and simple Joe Owen, head chef, Indaba Hotel, Spa & Conference Centre in Fourways, grew up in Newcastle on Tyne and attended school in the United Kingdom.

is interest in food was sparked at age 12 when he did job shadowing at a restaurant with his dad. “I loved the energy of the kitchen as well as the fact that I earned my first ‘pay cheque’.” Joe also enjoyed travelling and adventure and being a chef meant he could see the world whilst earning his keep. “I have been in the industry for 32 years (early start) and have had the pleasure of working in many hotels abroad before immigrating to South Africa in 2006.” He worked at various hotels in the UK and Australia before moving to South Africa. Locally, he has worked at Leriba Lodge, Irene Country Lodge, The Farm Inn, Moyo Melrose Arch, and before joining Indaba, Velmore Hotel Estate. Joe said his goal for the next five years is to maintain and grow the high standards of the Indaba Hotel, Spa & Conference Centre. He added: “I would like to introduce fresh ideas into the refurbished restaurant, share my love and knowledge of food with my team, and ultimately grow to be the executive chef of this busy and multi-faceted establishment.” Joe enjoys being a chef because of the great energy and passion you get in the kitchen. What he enjoys most is the ever changing requirements and

What is your signature dish? Classic beef Wellington with chicken liver parfait, spinach and a pistachio nut crumb, served medium rare of course, with a rich red wine jus and a hearty red blend to compliment the earthy flavours.

What trends are emerging in the conference industry in regards to food? Light, healthy options and smaller individual portions with more

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sometimes crazy pressures which cause some swearing but lots of laughter. “No day is ever the same in the kitchen.” In terms of trends, Joe said the move is definitely fresh and seasonal, local produce. In addition, he said guests are more health conscious and want lighter meals. However, there is also a trend towards going back to the classics, but with a modern twist. For example, the slow food movement is still trending but with cheaper cuts of meat and serviced with ancient grains. On the global front, he said the trend is tapas (small plate dining), healthier options like pork and broths, slowcooking methods, gourmand everyday meals (for example gourmet burgers, gourmet mac & cheese etc.), and a return to classics with a modern twist. Joe’s advice to conference organisers is: “Know your client, know your venue, meet with the chef and banqueting team before the event so that we best understand your requirements and do listen to suggestions. We are also happy to do menu tastings to make sure that expectations are met.” When asked about the current challenges chefs face today, he said: “Escalating food prices, poor quality ingredients, over-processed foods and disease which has affected the market

selection. Live cooking stations (e.g pancake bars, smoothie bars, ice-cream bars etc.) at teabreaks, and definitely a move to a more personal approach from the team.

adversely. Sometimes as chefs, we also tend to over complicate things. Best is to keep it simple and let quality ingredients speak for themselves.” Family is very important to Joe. He is engaged to his long-time partner and has two children, a boy and a girl aged four and eight. “We are planning our wedding for October this year and have chosen a small intimate venue in Pretoria to celebrate our special day.” “I love spending quality time with the kids as they make me smile every day.” For leisure, he plays golf and enjoys working out at the gym. He is an adrenalin junkie and enjoys abseiling, white water rafting and jumping out of aeroplanes, when he gets the chance. His advice for newcomers wanting to become a head chef is: “Work hard, be passionate about what you do and stay in tune with trends.” In conclusion, Joe said: “Indaba Hotel’s commercial areas are undergoing a major refurbishment from May to August 2018, and we are looking forward to launching the new hotel restaurant. It’s always great to be involved in a project from conception, as this allows for creativity in design and menu, which we can’t wait to launch to the public in September 2018.”

instead of at room temperature. It took a bit of getting used to, coming from the UK.

What is your favourite food? There’s nothing better

What is your favourite beverage? Grolsch always

than battered fish and vinegar soaked chips from the local “chippy”. Unfortunately, I still haven’t found a good British version of this classic in SA, so I tend to make my own at home when the craving calls.

hits the spot and I have learnt to enjoy my beers ice-cold

Tinfoil is a complete waste of

What has remained constant in this industry? Quality. Nothing ever beats quality.

What is your pet hate?

money. I have banned it in my kitchens.

What is your great love? I am passionate about my family and about food – these keep me balanced and happy.

Are you adventurous? I love travelling and yes, I am adventurous – white water rafting and a tandem jump are both up there with the most adventurous things that I have done.

Business Events Africa May 2018 17

A local perspective

Broader government support needed to double jobs

Tourism Minister Derek Hanekom’s budget vote in parliament on 17 May 2018 hit all the right notes, but if South Africa wants to deliver on President Cyril Ramaphosa’s challenge to the sector to double the number of people it employs, then the sector needs broader government support.

Mmatšatši Ramawela, chief executive officer, Tourism Business Council of South Africa.

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his is the view of Tourism Business Council of South Africa (TBCSA) chief executive officer, Mmatšatši Ramawela, in reaction to the budget vote. The TBCSA is the umbrella business organisation representing the country’s travel and tourism private sector. “While we welcome the budget, which seemed to hit all the right notes and is in line with the department’s National Tourism Sector Strategy, the industry, which includes government has its work cut out for it, if we want to double the tourism sector’s contribution in terms of arrivals, jobs and GDP,” Ms Ramawela said. “President Cyril Ramaphosa put a challenge to us in his State of the Nation Address, but the National Department of Tourism and the industry cannot do

Tourism Minister Derek Hanekom, pictured here at Africa’s Tourism Indaba 2018.

it alone. We need the full support of government from all levels, including key departments such as Home Affairs, Transport, Public Enterprises, Police, Labour, and Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, just to mention the notable ones. “Broader government collaboration is essential, together with the private sector to redouble our efforts and deliver on the directive, which comes from the highest office,” she added. South Africa’s tourism sector currently employs more than 700 000 people directly. The sector’s total employment contribution, including jobs indirectly supported by the sector, comes to more than 1.6 million. www.businesseventsafrica.com

A local perspective

South Africa’s tourism sector currently employs more than 700 000 people directly. The sector’s total employment contribution, including jobs indirectly supported by the sector, comes to more than 1.6 million.

Credit: SA Tourism

Notably, business outlook on employment levels for the first six months of 2018 remains mixed, as highlighted by the Council’s Tourism Business Index (June to December 2017). A significant number of respondents in both the ‘accommodation’ and ‘other tourism businesses’ segments of the TBI expect employment levels in the sector to remain the same. Travel and tourism’s direct contribution to SA’s GDP was R136.1 billion in 2017, according to the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) Economic Impact Report. The WTTC report further states that the tourism sector’s total contribution to South Africa’s GDP last year was R412.5 billion, or 8.9 per cent of the country’s overall GDP. Ms Ramawela commented: “Certainly, one of the highlights from Minister Hanekom’s budget speech is his commitment to address the critical issue of travel facilitation, particularly the regulations around unabridged birth certificates for minors of foreign tourists travelling to South Africa. The regulations have had a major impact on the industry and tourism growth figures. www.businesseventsafrica.com

“The negative effects are still being felt, so we are really happy to hear that the Tourism Minister is now working with Home Affairs Minister, Malusi Gigaba, to come up with a workable solution,” she added. On this note, the Ms Ramawela also took the opportunity to commend the Department of Home Affairs and Minister Gigaba on their plans to pilot e-permitting functionality which will allow visitors to South Africa to apply for visas online; simplify visa requirements for Chinese and Indian visitors; and also to ease the entry of people with valid visas from countries with stringent criteria such as the United States of America and the United Kingdom. The mooted introduction of e-visas was also mentioned by Minister Hanekom and is welcomed. The Department of Tourism saw a nominal increase in its budget, from R2.1 billion last year to R2.2 billion for the 2018/19 financial year. More than half of this budget, some R1.2 billion, will go towards SA Tourism’s operations. Ms Ramawela said: “While we understand that government funds are under pressure, we have to ask if this budget is sufficient to deliver on the ambitious growth expectations for the tourism sector. As the TBCSA, we believe that the budget is insufficient considering the tough competition from other destinations within and outside our continent. “The department needs a bigger budget, however we recognise that money spent in other departments such as Transport and Public Enterprises, including provinces and municipalities, also supports tourism.” She added: “It is also important to note that the TBCSA, which administers the Tourism Marketing South Africa (TOMSA) levy, last year contributed a total of R157 million to SA Tourism’s marketing efforts. It was great that for the first time during a Department of Tourism

budget debate, TOMSA’s contribution was recognised by the chairperson of Parliament’s Portfolio Committee on Tourism, Ms Lusizo Makhubela-Mashele. “We also welcome the chairperson’s call for SA Tourism to work more closely with us to increase the TOMSA levy collection in the country.” On the tourism transformation front, the TBCSA welcomed Minister Hanekom’s budget announcement on the introduction of the Tourism Transformation Fund. The initiative is a partnership with the National Empowerment Fund, to finance and support new and emerging black-owned tourism businesses. Application for funding is now open until August 2018. Ms Ramawela added: “Considering the pace of transformation in the tourism sector, this initiative is long overdue. We commend the department on implementing this fund. While the new Tourism Transformation Fund only has an allocation of R120 million over the next three years, it is a start and we hope this will increase in the future.” Ms Ramawela concluded: “While the tourism industry is happy with the general sentiments and programme of action cited in the Tourism Minister’s budget speech to support and grow the sector, we believe that the key areas of safety and security as well as addressing the decline in domestic tourism needs attention. “We face challenges on several fronts as a sector, chief amongst them been addressing the issues of crime against tourists. But the sector has huge opportunities as well. Doubling the number of jobs and contribution of the tourism sector to the economy is very attainable, but can only be achieved through collaboration and partnerships. “We need ‘an all of government’ approach and commitment for the tourism sector to thrive and achieve its full potential.” Business Events Africa May 2018 19

Report back | Africa’s Travel Indaba 2018

Africa’s Travel Indaba continues to grow

isa Ntshona, chief executive office of South African Tourism, said: “Indaba’s goal is to create a platform that allows the world to do business with Africa and business is happening. We are therefore encouraged by the number of buyers and exhibitors who have come from various parts of the world. They are our valued partners, who assist us to package and sell Africa to the world.” “When we took the decision to make Indaba a pan-African event, it was a deliberate strategy on our part of boost the African economy,” Mr Ntshona said. “The growing number of African countries at Africa’s Travel Indaba has bolstered their commitment to being here.

They are seeing the benefit of the expo and being part of a show that focuses only on Africa. The show is for Africa. The media are here for Africa and places the continent on the international stage.” It is important that Indaba creates a lasting legacy for the City of Durban and the economy of the KwaZulu-Natal Province by encouraging and supporting local procurement. Last year it was announced that the Inkosi Albert Luthuli Convention Centre would be home to the Indaba for the next five years. This year’s three-day show is expected to inject a R89 million to KZN’s GDP. “This is the 21st anniversary of the Durban ICC this year – a fitting way to start

There was a total of 1 747 registered buyers, an increase of 14 per cent from last year; while there were over 1 100 registered exhibitors, an increase of 5.7 per cent from last year. 20 Business Events Africa May 2018

Of the exhibitors, 200

were first time exhibitors. A total of 23 African countries attended the Indaba. our five-year journey with this awardwinning venue,” Mr Ntshona said. Phillip Sithole, deputy city manager for economic development and planning for the city of eThekwini, said: “The city of Durban is excited to host Africa’s Travel Indaba in 2018. Tourism remains the major economic contributor and vital in creating job opportunities.” “Indaba is one of the events we are proud to host as it gives us the results that the city needs to boost tourism and investor participation in the city’s key infrastructure programmes that aim to change the landscape of the city,” he added. www.businesseventsafrica.com

Report back | Africa’s Travel Indaba 2018

Cape Town & the Western Cape awarded best stand Cape Town and the Western Cape is on a winning streak as they claim another stand award at Africa’s Travel Indaba in Durban.

his is the third consecutive prize claimed by the province in three major travel shows in South Africa, including: The Green Stand Award in the Large Stand Category at Meetings Africa held in February; the Best Responsible Stand Award at the World Travel Market Africa, and most recently the Provincial Authorities Platinum Award at Africa’s Travel Indaba. Wesgro CEO, Tim Harris, commented: “The recognition by the industry speaks volumes to the hours of meticulous design, careful curation and dedication put in by the team to ensure that Cape Town and the Western Cape are supremely showcased. The stand, which was supported by regional and local tourism offices such as Cape Town Tourism, Cape Winelands, Weskus and private sector

partners such as Cape Town International Convention Centre, Giltedge Travel and Spier Hotel met with over 500 international buyers across the three shows.” Designed and manufactured using green principles, 50 per cent of the booth is re-palpable and constructed using recycled paper waste material. The steel used for the frame is repurposed from the 2016 and 2017 stands which collectively attended 12 full events. Similarly, all timber used in the stand has been re-purposed from previous years. Making use of LED lightning, a single fridge unit and limited LED display screens contribute to low energy consumption on site. The stand boasts a low carbon footprint and is fully flat-packed for transport, lightweight and modular –

Boosting the city and province is the recent announcement of the direct flight from Heathrow to King Shaka International Airport. “This means the gateway to UK and Europe is now opened for investors and visitors. Real work has begun, together with our partners, KwaZulu-Natal Tourism andSouth African Tourism to ensure that this flight becomes a success,” Mr Sithole said. Phindile Makwakwa, acting chief executive officer of KwaZulu-Natal Tourism added: “This was a very successful Indaba and it kicked off on a high note with the announcement that BA was going to start direct flights from Heathrow to Durban. The UK market is keen on a collaborative relationship with Durban, and that is critical and welcomed.”

During this Indaba, KwaZulu-Natal Tourism also positioned its marketing on the different routes offered in the province. “We also ensured that there is a strong focus on positioning SMMEs and affording them the opportunity to engage with big business,” Ms Makwakwa said. South African Tourism’s Hidden Gems programme included 135 SMMEs from across the country. In addition, the provinces hosted SMMEs from their areas on their stands. Another highlight of this year’s Indaba is its partnership with the Nelson Mandela Foundation on the Nelson Mandela 100 centenary programme, with various activations throughout the three days of the Indaba. The networking opening event celebrated the global icon with

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the materials have been constructed in such a way that the design is configurable to different formats and sizes, ensuring the most can be made out of any exhibition space. There is a specific focus on water saving awareness, with #WaterWiseTourism and general greening messages clearly visible around the design. To add to the water saving message, synthetic plants have been utilised in areas outside of tactile interaction. Resonating the green message, limited brochures are printed and no gifting takes places at the tradeshows.

The 2018 Africa's Travel Indaba opened in style as guests from the all corners of the world arrived to witness Africa's largest travel trade show. It was opened by Sisa Ntshona, CEO of South African Tourism, who gave way to Minister of Tourism, Derek Hanekom who rang the bell with Elizabeth Thabethe, Deputy Minister of Tourism.

local flair with a local cast directed by renowned local director. “We invite you to the 100 places of Madiba and share your experiences with the world. Walk in the footprints of Madiba and find the better person in you,” Mr Ntshona said. A record 62 million people visited Africa in 2017, an eight per cent year on year growth. It is also symbolic that May is Africa Month and that the Indaba falls within this month. Business Events Africa May 2018 21

Venue of the month | Monate Game Lodge

MONATE GAME LODGE

The gem of the bushveld Nestled amidst manicured gardens on a 2000-hectare malaria-free private game reserve a stone’s throw from Modimolle, Limpopo, Monate Game Lodge is a tranquil haven. A mere two-hour drive from both Johannesburg and even less from Pretoria, it is the venue of choice for conferencing, weddings or corporate weekend getaway.

hen it comes to functional luxury, Monate is truly in a league of its own. Monate Game Lodge offers luxurious accommodation in 38 modern double rooms situated at the main lodge. The main lodge rooms are openplan ensuite rooms equipped with all amenities to make any stay as comfortable and enjoyable as possible. All rooms are tastefully decorated in simplistic tones with décor elements to remind one of the bushveld that waits to be explored outside, while the superior quality linen and towels tempts one to linger a little longer. Monate’s two bush villas, Shingwedzi and Skukuza, are the crown jewels, perfect for discerning executives. Resplendently decorated and furnished with both Chinese and colonial antiques, each lodge boasts a private splash pool on the deck and a level of decadence fit for royalty. Relax on the private patio or stroll to the nearest swimming pool to cool off. Also keep an eye open for the daily animal visits to the lodge – dassies, vervet monkeys and nyala often wander the manicured gardens around the lodge. On the job? Each room ensures that guests stay connected with multi-functional outlets, Wi-Fi and wireless telephone facilities. 22 Business Events Africa May 2018

Not in the mood for traffic? The 1 100 m grass airstrip and helipad accommodates both private and chartered flights. Monate is home to myriad species of wildlife, including buffalo, giraffes, hippos, zebras, as well as a plethora of antelope and roughly 50 per cent of South Africa’s native bird species, so remember to pack a camera and binoculars for this wildlife paradise. But Monate isn’t all play. The world-class facilities create the perfect setting for a conference, corporate workshop, senior management meeting, and team-building. Monate’s state-of-the-art conference centre is close enough to the lodge, yet far enough away to afford delegates a tranquil bush business experience. The centre is able to accommodate up to 120 delegates and is flexible according to the required seating arrangements, with breakaway areas. A smaller conference room is also available, and can accommodate up to 60 people, depending on the seating arrangements required. Both venues are well planned and include data projectors, a plug-and-play audiovisual system, airconditioning, televisions, sound systems, telephones and wireless microphones – everything one would expect from a four-star venue, with the added bonus of being in nature.

Peckish after a long day? Treat delegates to a unique culinary experience in a sumptuous dining venue like the natural cave or the Bush Boma. Its impossible to get bored at Monate. There is something for everyone – from game drives, guided bush walks and clay pigeon shooting, to sparkling swimming pools, a jacuzzi and a bar where one can enjoy a drink amongst colleagues or new friends, or watch your favourite live sport over the weekend. Not convinced yet? How about pampering delegates at the new Monate Bush Spa, boasting a variety of treatments including massages? Whatever the groups’ needs or desires, Monate is sure to fulfil them. Come visit Monate Game Lodge and discover why it is truly the gem of the Bushveld.

For more information and reservations contact: Telephone: +27 14 718 7000 Email: info@monatelodge.com Website: www.monatelodge.com

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EXCLUSIVE CONFERENCES

Quote code BCA17 when booking a conference at Monate and receive 10% discount

FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO MAKE A BOOKING E: info@monatelodge.com | conferences@monatelodge.com T: +27 14 718 7000 (Modimolle/Nylstroom) W: www.monatelodge.com

Destination feature | Spier

Conscious conferencing

Host your next memorable event at

Spier

y hosting your event at Spier, you’ll be helping to uplift communities, support local businesses, contribute to staff wellness and benefit our environment, all while treating your delegates to a great experience. Just 40 minutes from Cape Town, and 20 minutes from the airport, Spier offers 12 different meeting venues that can host large and small conferences, as well as business meetings, workshops, seminars and exhibitions. The venues include a 430-seater auditorium, three meeting rooms in the 1822 historic Manor House (which has an oak-shaded courtyard adjacent to it) as well all as three river- and 24 Business Events Africa May 2018

The historic Spier Hotel and Wine Farm in Stellenbosch is constantly striving to find innovative ways to have a positive social and environmental impact. This very much embodies its approach to events, which it calls ‘conscious conferencing’.

mountain-facing conference rooms which can be used separately or combined to seat 250 delegates. In addition to Spier’s Eight restaurant (which can be booked for private use), there are a variety of picnic spots and outdoor spaces for cocktails or dining. Comfortable, country-style accommodation is available for delegates in the four-star, 153-room Spier Hotel, which also has a boardroom for meetings.

On the plate Spier serve wholesome and delicious food, fresh from the farm, that pairs perfectly with its award-winning wines. Underscoring this is the belief that the

natural flavour of food should speak for itself, so expect a conferencing menu that is seasonal, uncomplicated and creative. Beef and pork come from grass-fed animals reared on Spier’s pastures, along with delicious eggs laid by happy hens that scratch around freely in the fields. The animals are reared without the use of antibiotics or hormones. As a participant South African Sustainable Seafood Initiative, Spier also promotes sustainable seafood choices. During sessions, healthy snacks of dried fruit and nuts are available for delegates, while at breaks there is local seasonal fruit juice, organic rooibos tea and Fair Trade filter coffee as well www.businesseventsafrica.com

Destination feature | Spier

as freshly baked cookies from the Khayelitsha Cookie Company. This is a social upliftment project which hires previously unemployed women from Khayelitsha, providing skills, training and permanent, affirming employment. Organic and Fair Trade wine is available on request for post-session catch-ups.

Ever greener While Spier has long offered sustainablyminded conferencing solutions, it is setting the bar even higher following a R1 million refurbishment of its facilities. The upgrade includes the installation of temperature-regulating glass sliding doors at the centre’s entrance and soundproof double doors for its Tamboers Lounge, as well as water-saving motion-sensor taps and waterless urinals – adding to the farm’s 400 existing water-saving devices. A concerted effort to conserve water has resulted in major savings.In the last six months, compared to the predrought period of July to December 2015, the hotel saved 58 per cent and conferencing 55 per cent in water usage. Spier also recycles more than 97 per cent of solid waste and 100 per cent of organic waste. Black and grey water is treated and irrigates the garden and grounds.

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Delegates are kept refreshed with filtered tap water and the Water From Air™ machines harness the atmosphere’s humidity, served in recyclable glass bottles. Pens and notepads are made from 100 per cent recycled paper, with leftover stationery going to deserving schoolchildren in nearby communities. As part of Spier’s commitment to a selfsufficient and sustainable future, a solar power system was installed in August 2017 on the Spier Conference Centre roof. The system generates electricity from the sun and offsets approximately 40 per cent of the conference centre’s annual power usage. When electricity demand in the centre is low and generation is high, the excess power is used by other buildings on the estate. Not only is solar generated power less expensive than energy from the grid, it also substantially reduces Spier’s carbon footprint. The solar energy generated by Spier in one year is 50.8 metric tonnes of CO2 savings; this is the equivalent of 24.58 tonnes of coal that doesn’t need be burnt in a coal-fired power station. Spier supports a number of youth employment initiatives and is a partner of the Tree-preneurs project which encourages members of impoverished

communities to grow indigenous trees in exchange for essential goods.

Get involved In partnership with Pack for Purpose, Spier has selected three social development projects which guests can make a contribution to. If you have spare space in your luggage, you could make a huge difference by packing in a donation of stationery, games, sports gear and soccer balls. Want to offer your delegates memorable activities? Spier offers tours of its Tree-preneurs nursery, its eco-friendly wastewater treatment plant and the worm farm and compost site where organic waste from Spier’s kitchens is transformed into nutrient-rich fertiliser. Or you can invite your delegates to collect eggs from free-roaming chickens and learn, in the Werf Food Garden, how to prepare soil for planting and how to grow vegetables, before picking a few for lunch.

conference@spier.co.za www.spier.co.za

Business Events Africa May 2018 25

Exhibition greening

To green

or not to green As an ethical and responsible association, the Exhibition and Events Association of Southern Africa (EXSA) has a vested interest in promoting sustainability in our industry. As our members subscribe to our code of conduct, it goes without saying that they are perfectly situated as brand ambassadors of exhibition and event greening.

XSA comprises suppliers: venues, stand and event infrastructural supply contractors, audiovisual and event management organisations, agencies, design houses and project management companies. Some food for thought: If every individual were to examine just their own amount of waste generated in one day, take that and project it over the course of a year, this alone will impact on the way we conduct ourselves in the world. Now put this into the context of the industry as a business owner, manager and/or employee.

26 Business Events Africa May 2018

The synopsis is thought provoking. And most importantly, it provokes change. It is as much about education as it is about consciousness. Each and every action, albeit small or large, is a contributor – positively and negatively.

Greening objectives The exhibition industry encompasses exhibitions whose organisers are heeding the ‘greening’ methodology and looking at the future of being sustainable, where objectives are being set in respect of: • Foreseeing the future development and sustainability of exhibitions and

how to execute and improve them. • Forecasting the growth and potential for the next five years and the relevant impact. • Promoting sustainability: meeting the needs of the present, without compromising the ability of future generations. • Caring for the environment: implementing sustainable business practice and reducing the environmental footprint. • Manufacturing and/or refurbishing with a strong focus on water and energy conservation through the

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Exhibition greening

If every individual were to examine just their own amount of waste generated in one day, take that and project it over the course of a year, this alone will impact on the way we conduct ourselves in the world.

implementation of recycled water, relevant green build materials and solar energy systems. EXSA is cognisant of the fact that environmental protection entails examining how our use of the environment impacts on sustainability. Gill Gibbs, EXSA executive committee, said: “Our interactions with the environment are only sustainable if they do not destroy the environment and its resources in the process and therefore, our focus is to consistently strive to achieve the balance of ecology. We have to ensure that any negative effects

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are minimised and that behaviours that positively impact the environment, are emphasised. Quid quo pro. “In the context of our industry and the use of timber, our mantra is ‘reduce reuse, recycle’. We cannot maintain our quality of life as human beings, the diversity of life on Earth or its ecosystems unless we embrace sustainability.’’ The fact is that fossil fuels will run out, millions of animal species will become extinct, we will run out of timber, as well as damage the atmosphere beyond repair if we do not change our methodology. The root of change lies in understanding and striving for sustainability in our own homes, in our communities, in our industry, in our ecosystems, and around the world. Doug Rix, EXSA executive committee, commented: ‘’EXSA is aligned with the Event Greening Forum (EGF) and so too, should our members be aligned. “The EGF is currently researching the use of wood in the South African exhibition industry and we are very keen to assess the outcome and to implement awareness, education and best practices going forward, not just for our members but for our Industry at large – #EXSA cares.’’ “This research by the EGF is based on a concern that the number of wood-based exhibition stands being commissioned are on the increase, and that most of these stands are single use and are not disposed of responsibly. “The research will clarify the current context with data, and then propose best practice alternatives which speak to the triple bottom line of environmental, social and economic sustainability.” “The title of the research is ‘a cradle to grave analysis of the use of

wood and wood products for the manufacture of exhibition stands in South Africa, with a view to identifying unsustainable practices and proposing best practice alternatives that are more environmentally, socially and financially sustainable.” “We are all responsible and adaptable catalysts and therefore, we must focus on reducing the consumption of natural resources, reducing waste to a minimum, limiting impacts on global climate and protecting biodiversity and human health,” Mr Rix added. Cara Nortman, managing director of SSQ Exhibitions said: “Education is key: educating both our clients and ourselves as designers on sustainable design methodologies, recycled and recyclable materials, energy efficient lighting, as well as environmentally friendly and responsibly sourced elements. “This extends beyond the design and build of our physical exhibition stands to our business practices as well. SSQ has a sustainability policy that governs our operations and takes into account the following: • The promotion of electronic communications and digitally presented and stored documentation over print. • specifying and bulk-buying items that can be used on a number of jobs and reused and recycled on future builds. • taking into account natural material sizes and dimensions to reduce off cuts and unnecessary wastage and expense to clients. • recycling or redeployment of any printed documentation, old trade newspapers and magazines, and cardboard packaging, as well as computer hardware and carpentry stock items.”

Business Events Africa May 2018 27

Exhibition greening

Five exhibition companies to sponsor industry research Five South African exhibition suppliers have committed to sponsor research into the use of wood and wood products in exhibitions, with a specific focus on how much of this material is used, how it is disposed of as waste, and how it can be used more responsibly.

his move, of a few companies funding a project for the greater good of the industry, is unprecedented, and indicative of a growing conviction among business that more needs to be done to promote responsible practices within the industry. The five companies are: African Graphix, bluClube, Inspire Furniture Rentals, New World and Scan Display. The research was initiated by the non-profit organisation the Event Greening Forum (EGF), after its committee members noticed a trend towards more custom exhibition stands being commissioned. These stands are generally made from MDF board (which is derived from wood), are single use and end up in landfill. The EGF’s primary objective is to promote sustainability within the business events industry, and it sees research and knowledge as the foundation to being able to advise best practice alternatives. The research will also include findings on what creative solutions,

both locally and overseas, the industry has innovated to minimise wood waste. Out of a number of proposals, the University of Pretoria was chosen to conduct the research. To cover the cost, the EGF invited the industry to sponsor the research. Six sponsorships of R10 000 each were proposed. With five sponsorship spots already being taken, one still remains should any company be interested. All sponsors will be acknowledged for their financial support in the published research. Chad Botha, the founder of Inspire Furniture Rentals and recently nominated EGF treasurer, added: “I believe that it is important for all of us to give back and make the world a better place for everyone. We need to consider our future generations and ensure that we do whatever we can to do this. Every bit of input, no matter how small or big, will contribute to this, and Inspire Furniture wants to be able to look back and know that we contributed to a better world.”

“We cannot maintain our quality of life as human beings, the diversity of life on Earth or its ecosystems, unless we embrace sustainability.” “We also practice car-pooling with company vehicles when travelling to and from site and client meetings and plan our routes carefully for all our multi-drop deliveries, to reduce our mileage, and subsequently our carbon emissions. “Other operational aspects to consider are the use of energysaving light bulbs in all offices and factories, and ensuring all lights, plug points, generators and geysers are turned off during closing periods. “We also encourage staff to open windows instead of using air conditioners or fans and to use heaters sparingly in winter.” “It is a multi-fronted approach that will ensure our best efforts when reducing the consumption of natural resources, reducing waste to a minimum, limiting impacts on global climate and protecting biodiversity and human health,” she concluded.

Top tips

ways to improve the ecoÂ status of an event

By Junelle Germishuizen, owner and creator at Lardiere Fine Foods

Event goers today are hyperaware of what goes into event planning and are increasingly concerned about the ecological cost associated with hosting a big, lavish affair.

s an event planner, the onus is to try to reduce, reuse and recycle in creative and innovative ways to keep attendees happy without sacrificing the style and the quality of the event.

1. Reduce plastic Plastic straws have become a symbol of all that is wrong with the world today, and a major social media target. Paper straws are an attractive alternative, but end up soggy and still have the ecological black marks of being bleached and dyed. Metal straws are a fresh alternative to plastic and paper straws, and can long outlast the usefulness of both. Bamboo and glass straws are also great options to reduce the plastic-load of any event.

2. Reusable Glass is not only beautiful; it is also reusable. Where the theme allows for it, incorporate glass mason jars and jugs. Glass is also a safe choice for food since plastic and polystyrene can melt and leach toxic chemicals into food and beverages. Plastic containers often contain BPA (Bisphenol-A) which is proven to disrupt the functioning of human cells. Go with glass instead.

3. Recycle Make sure that any disposable packaging, crockery, cutlery and cans are recycled. Train the event staff to identify recyclable materials and have allocated bins for paper, plastic, glass and cans to be recycled. Look for compostable options that can biodegrade efficiently and minimise the impact on the environment. WASARA compostable tableware is an elegant example of form and function. www.businesseventsafrica.com

As an eco-conscious event planner, make a concerted effort to reduce the quantity disposed of from any event, and this includes food too. Donate any untouched prepared food to homeless shelters, and minimise food waste by investing in an industrial grade bokashi composter, and donate the soil to local food gardens.

choices that you make. Integrate the reduce, reuse and recycle mentality into your eventing approach, and you will reap the positive rewards across your reviews and referrals down the line.

4. Clean eating Sugar-free, wheat-free, gluten-free, vegan: these terms are growing in popularity and the â&#x20AC;&#x153;free-fromâ&#x20AC;? movement has gained sway amongst consumers. Products that are free from allergens and preservatives are starting to take up more shelf-space in the grocery store, and consumers are more interested in the ingredient list behind the delicious cuisine on offer. Make a statement in what is served and give guests options.

5. Transparency Although transparency is not strictly an eco-essential, it does fit into the ecoconscious ethos of caring for the planet and its people. Companies today are expected to care and give back to the communities that they serve, and open and honest business practices are core to the transparent business ethos. There are more and more options facing event organisers today, and many attendees are paying attention to the

Who is Junelle Germishuizen? Junelle Germishuizen is the owner and creator at Lardiere Fine Foods, a gourmet food production house that creates artisanal room treats for the discerning traveller. Chef Junelle has a passion for food trends and is on a constant lookout for new and exciting tastes and trends influencing and impacting the hotel and hospitality industry.

Business Events Africa May 2018 29

Tech watch

Harness technology to

super charge attendee experience by Mike Lysko, chief executive officer and founder of Flock Event Platform

With decreasing attention spans, intensified competition and increasingly demanding attendees, the event organiser is under constant pressure to make certain her event is educational, meaningful, motivational, interesting, and comes in on budget.

hat’s why leading professionals in the field are turning to event experience design. This addresses the needs of key attendees throughout the entire event lifecycle, from pre-event to post-event. It also acknowledges that, by understanding attendee’s character, needs, and desires, organisers gain powerful knowledge to guide event creation, from beginning to end. Importantly, event experience design provides organisers with the tools to guide attendees on a rewarding journey that accomplishes their goals, as well as those of the owner of the event, exhibitors and sponsors. One of the key tools in the event planner’s toolbox is technology, and there are five key processes or activities that benefit the event design. These are:

to ask attendees what they want, and then make sure to deliver it.

1. R egistration and/or ticket purchasing

It can sometimes be difficult for speakers to maintain the attention of attendees. Event technology that enables polls and surveys during sessions encourages attendees to act as participants instead of bystanders. The more opportunities we provide for attendees to interact, the more value they receive.

Streamlining the registration process starts the attendee journey off on a positive note, and makes it easier for the event organiser to build on it as the event experience continues. Quick registration and ticket sale technology will help ease any frustrations attendees may have experienced in the past.

2. U nderstanding what attendees want When events fail to meet attendees’ expectations, they generally never come back. To maximise return attendance, use a pre-event survey 30 Business Events Africa May 2018

3. G amification and networking The idea of applying gaming mechanics, like points, badges, and leaderboards, is a tactic to guide attendee behaviour in a way that will improve their networking experience at the event.

4. Real-time communications The best way to keep attendees engaged is to keep them informed. Digital signage technology, for example, allows for an engaging and dynamic way to display key information on screens throughout your event.

5. I ncreased engagement during presentations and seminars

The rise of mobile With these activities in mind, event organisers should consider a CEIR 2016 study, which found attendees bring an average of 1.5 mobile devices (smartphones and tablets) to an event, along with

laptops. This study also predicted that 2018 will be the year that mobile becomes core to the digital ecosystem. Further, according to a study by comScore, the average adult internet user spends 71 per cent of their internet time accessing it via mobile. Mobile users have now also outpaced desktop ones. Given mobile’s rise, it makes sense to capture and hold onto a mobile audience, and stands to reason that app technology is coming to the fore of those technologies used by organisers. To create an engaging mobile app experience, organisers must ensure it embraces every component, from app idea to post-event usage. The critical components are:

User need The event app must help attendees do something they want and need, in a way that is much simpler. Maybe that’s in networking, room selection, sponsorships or some other area. But your app must do something for them that simplifies their life or they won’t see much reason to download it or use it.

Communicating value If you’ve spent time figuring out what your attendees need in an app, you must ensure that they know you’ve listened. You don’t want to simply tell them about the app. Instead, show them how it will make their lives easier or what is so appealing about it from their point of view. www.businesseventsafrica.com

Tech watch

data to tailor and personalise offers to a segment of your event audience. This gives people exactly what they want to see and what they find value in based on the data and historical activity you have access to.

Linking to other digital messaging

Size Most people are frugal with their app downloads because of space. If you must choose between a large app that does everything or a smaller one that does the one thing they need, go with the latter. Bells and whistles are cool, but only if you have the space.

Data targeting With a mobile event app, you now have access to a lot more data and you should be using it. You can also use the

While people may love your new event app, you never want it to be a full replacement of all of their other digital activity. Instead of viewing Facebook, Instagram, or text messaging as rivals to your app, find ways to incorporate them into a seamless experience. App adoption and creating a beneficial mobile app experience for your event audience occurs more than just at the time of roll-out. You want it to become an ongoing push that helps keep you connected to your community. Whether you design your own app or select a company with a premade app, you must provide your audience with value that they can’t get elsewhere.

Who is Mike Lysko? Mike started his first business, which combined his love of music and technology, while still at university. While some may scoff at the idea of DJing at parties as a business, it soon led to bigger things, such as providing the sound equipment and lighting, as well as music if necessary, at campus and corporate events. It was at these that Mike realised that paper- and laptop-driven systems didn’t deliver a seamless event experience for those attending it. That’s when he started AppYourEvent, using overseas app technology to deliver all the event logistics and information so that delegates could focus on learning, networking, identifying new opportunities, and exploring new products. Also aware of this technology’s shortcomings, he began building a proprietary hosting environment, called Flock Event Management Platform. Recently launched and the first of its kind from Africa, it’s now the focus of Mike’s business and is being embraced by event coordinators locally, including those responsible for Indaba 2018, and globally.

y r o t S n a ic

r f A r Ou

Continued…

Africa, north to south, is really fast becoming our playground. So far, during 2018, apart from 63 local projects, ExpoGuys have completed 12 events in Cape Town and a 357 sqm pavilion in Lagos for the German Government. Stock was ﬂown in from China and Johannesburg to Lagos where the project was completed on time to our high standards and the total satisfaction of a very meticulous client.

OUR EXPERIENCE AND DEDICATION IS YOUR GUARANTEE

Venue highlight | Silverstar

An all-round offering with

Silverstar conferencing

Conferencing and banqueting at the West Rand’s premier entertainment destination, Silverstar, is showing strong appeal for corporates looking for an all-in-one offering that guarantees quality and variety.

nneke Potgieter, director of operations and complex general manager at Silverstar, said the precinct is gaining ground in repeat business in events and conferences. “The strength of our offering, particularly for conferences, is multifaceted. As a resort, we have a wide range of top-class facilities to suit conferences, business meetings, and banquets – including venues, restaurants and bars, entertainment,

32 Business Events Africa May 2018

shows, team building and gaming entertainment on the casino floor. “Our wide offering allows us the flexibility to develop packages to suit the needs for specific events. Delegates can arrive at Silverstar and not have to leave the property for the duration of the event as everything to make your conference a memorable one is right here and is easily accessible.” For delegates wanting to stay over, The Southern Sun Silverstar Hotel is situated on the precinct. This contemporary hotel offers luxury accommodation in a choice

of 34 beautifully furnished en suite rooms. Rooms are equipped with air conditioning, in-room comforts, complimentary Wi-Fi and more. Southern Sun Silverstar has been described as ‘your home-away-fromhome’, a sentiment echoed in the hearty breakfasts served at Vigour & Verve. The Silverstar Ballroom can accommodate 350 delegates in schoolroom seating, 400 in a banqueting set up and 650 delegates in cinema-style seating, or it can be divided into two sections for smaller breakaway meetings. www.businesseventsafrica.com

Venue highlight | Silverstar

Silverstar’s smaller conference venues can accommodate 10 to 40 delegates. Included in the delegate day rate are three tea/coffee breaks, lunch, standard conference facilities and free Wi-Fi. Team building and fun activities are also often incorporated into conferences. If you are looking for something different with an exciting edge, delegates can experience customised casino games on our casino floor. Our entertainment offering includes Magic Company’s ten-pin bowling www.businesseventsafrica.com

and The Laser Zone for action-packed laser tag games across three levels. Silverstar also hosts crowd-pleasing shows and concerts at Barnyard Silverstar and The Globe, which are popular inclusions in conference or event packages. Other add-ons at Silverstar include some relaxation time at Soulstice spa, as well as the latest in movie magic at movies@Silverstar. The world-class food and beverages at Silverstar gives event organisers a range of offerings to suit every occasion and budget. The Billy G buffet restaurant offers a variety of dishes to satisfy everyone’s palate and includes salads, deliciouslyprepared meat and vegetables dishes on the main buffet, and tantalising desserts. This option is also very efficient in terms of time since most conferences only allow one hour for a lunch break. If an à la carte menu is preferred, Vigour & Verve restaurant offers lighter meals, while the menu at Publicity Pub & Grill features high-quality pub grub in an upmarket and relaxed sports pub atmosphere. This venue is also a popular post-conference meeting place for delegates.

Ms Potgieter said: “Another offering that our conference clients find appealing is that we are willing to exclusively book out any of the Tsogo-owned restaurants at Silverstar for them – namely Publicity, Vigour & Verve and Billy G – effectively using our restaurants as an extension of the conference facilities.” She added: “Our conferencing and event clients choose Silverstar because we strive to always deliver a personalised and quality experience for every guest. Everything is on one property, so there is no need to worry about logistics and additional costs of ferrying people from conference venue to entertainment venues.”

For information and bookings, visit Silverstar.co.za, email silverstar.banqueting@tsogosun.com, or call (011) 662 7422 / 7434.

Business Events Africa May 2018 33

Venue highlight | Birchwood

Birchwood

The complete package So often, we find ourselves at a venue or hotel, where there is just something missing. We often say, “It was great, but could have been better.” This recurring paradigm is what has led Birchwood to creating the unrivalled offering it has today.

elebrating 20 years in 2018, Birchwood’s ongoing efforts to upgrade and improve the property have reached a climactic point which has resulted in a hospitality hub with a service offering that is unrivalled. Birchwood’s prime location, being only seven km from OR Tambo International Airport, is only the beginning. Jumping on to their free shuttle, after enjoying a complimentary beverage at their Airport Waiting Lounge, gets delegates to a destination that is not just ready to accommodate, but ready to create an experience. Starting with accommodation, delegates are spoilt for choice with an ample 665 accommodation rooms on the property. These rooms are split in to three subbrands, varying in style and size. Silverbirch @ Birchwood is an awardwinning corporate offering comprising 235 accommodation rooms (within the 665), targeting the modern business traveller and small corporate group.

34 Business Events Africa May 2018

Upmarket and uniquely positioned in the secluded garden areas of Birchwood’s vast property, Silverbirch has its very own breakfast venue, conference facilities and fine-dining restaurant, The Grill @ OneTwenty. The newest addition to the accommodation room offering, and still within the 665 accommodation rooms on offer, ValuStay @ Birchwood has 96 completely renovated and upgraded rooms which are designed to exceed expectations, but not the budget. They are located near the main reception, and its adjacent informal restaurant, The BC Café, which is ideal for light meals, a quick drink or a small boardroom meeting. Despite the benefits of a lower rate, ValuStay guests still have access to great facilities that the hotel has to offer including the on-site Mangwanani Boutique Spa, pool, gym and dining options. The remaining rooms are strategically located in an around the various

conferencing and event venues around the property, to ensure a seamless journey from the event to the accommodation room. Conferencing and events form the core products on offer at Birchwood with a rich variety of what is possible, both in terms of size as well as complexity. Offering over 60 venues on the property, these comprehensive and all-encompassing venues are wellequipped to accommodate delegations and audiences of any number between two to 3 000 guests under one roof. Intimate boardrooms all the way up to a 3 000 m2 exhibition hall. Bradley Partridge, general manager, said: “Having this incredible variety only enhances your conference experience and capabilities as you can enjoy multiple breakaway rooms in addition to your plenary venue.” Adding to the notion of a one-stopshop environment, a dedicated event co-ordination team, on-site audiovisual

www.businesseventsafrica.com

Venue highlight | Birchwood

Adding to the notion of a one-stop-shop environment, a dedicated event co-ordination team, on-site audiovisual & IT technicians, and dedicated décor specialists all form part of the package.

& IT technicians, and dedicated décor specialists all form part of the package. The requirement of having to locate external service providers, and to correctly create a concept is completely removed. When it comes to banqueting, Birchwood has it covered. The complicated separation of costings such a venuehire, meals and décor is no longer a concern, with Birchwood’s broad banquet packages on offer. These have a perperson cost and include a wealth of items, including a three-course meal. The development of the above facilities was largely based on the idea of creating an offering which can handle both the most complex of requirements, and the simplest. It is with this in mind that Birchwood continues to grow.

www.businesseventsafrica.com

The trend of the same breakfast, lunch and dinner venue during each day of the delegates stay was one which was to be avoided by Birchwood. The first step was to develop various venues all offering something completely different from the other including ambiance, menu and environment. Birchwood’s brand new Boma is evidence of this. A semi-outdoor and tranquil setting including a tapas menu and proudly African feel, located adjacent to the already popular Phomolong Restaurant. Kevin Clarence, owner and founder of Birchwood, said: “Boma, Phomolong, The Grill @ OneTwenty and our other dining options are there purely to augment the guest experience, where every night is different to the last.”

That awkward time period between the end of a conference and dinner is also taken care of. The relaunch of Birchwood’s in-house residents bar, The Hotspot, is the perfect venue to spend this time. It’s open from 16h00 and houses a plethora of screens, semiprivate booths and ice-cold drinks. A complete upgrade of Birchwood’s Wi-Fi system adds to this mix of features, and guests can look forward to a more efficient, fast and reliable system, perfect for the individual and conference group alike. “We recognise the increasing trend of conferences and events relying on an online platform, which is why we are pursuing the best possible option,” Mr Clarence concluded.

Business Events Africa May 2018 35

Giver of the month

Letsema La Bana at the Rand Show

Loosely translated, ‘Letsema La Bana’ means ‘joining hands for the children’. This describes the purpose and collaborative effort on the day, which was created to honour the South African Police Services (SAPS) and community safety widows, orphans and families who have lost a family member in the line of duty.

etsema La Bana, the annual support day hosted at Johannesburg Expo Centre since 2009 in conjunction with the Rand Show, took place on Friday 6 April 2018. This marked the 11th year of the event, dedicated to shining the spotlight on the plight of the SAPS and community safety widows and orphans. It is a tribute to families that have lost a parent or partner in their heroic efforts to fight crime in our country. Captain Julia Claassen, SAPS spokesperson, said: “The amount of support we get from companies willing to sponsor this initiative is truly humbling, and affirms that our efforts are not in vain. “Members of the SAPS and Community Safely have also been great in supporting us put this together and making sure we pay homage to our fallen heroes in a dignified way. “The SAPS Widows and Orphans social responsibility programme

continues to grow in support year on year and we are grateful each time for the tireless efforts of Craig Newman and his team,” she concluded.

“We are always eager to lend a helping hand to initiatives, and Letsema La Bana is no different,” said Craig Newman, chief executive officer of the Johannesburg Expo Centre.

Thank you to our sponsors

36 Business Events Africa May 2018

www.businesseventsafrica.com

Service focus

Help is but a phone call When it comes to interpreting, most people’s definition stretches as far as the simultaneous interpreting they get in a conference, or of an interpreter in a court case who delivers consecutive interpreting between a witness and an advocate. These forms of interpreting are still alive and well, but another form that is gaining popularity worldwide, is telephone interpreting.

magine being on holiday somewhere where you don’t speak the language of the area. You fall ill and need medical attention, but no one at the local hospital can understand you beyond you clutching at your aching belly or pointing to your sore throat. Or you need to go to home affairs or a police station, but no one behind the counter can understand you. Imagine the desperation and frustration of not being able to get the proper assistance with your issue. This is the reality for thousands of people across the world, as well as here in South Africa, but it is slowly changing. Over the past few years, people have become more aware of the need to have interpreters ready to assist during various

scenarios, but how do you ensure that someone is available at all times and in all locations – remote and central? The short answer: you can’t, but Folio is heading there with leaps and bounds.

The Folio InterTel solution Taking inspiration from well-established telephone interpreting systems in the USA, Folio Online created Folio InterTel, the first telephone interpreting system in Africa, in 2011. It currently focusses on community hospitals and day clinics in the Western Cape and serves over 100 facilities, ranging from the Southern and Northern Suburbs, the West Coast, Swartland, Metropole, to Khayelitsha and the Eastern Substructure. At the press of a button, the service provides medical interpreting between medical staff and patients in 37 languages, including 26 African languages and 11 European and Asian languages. Now it is possible for medical staff members to communicate effectively with patients who feel safe enough to share confidential medical information and discuss problems in their mother-tongue via an interpreter. This all takes place in the comfort and privacy of consulting rooms in hospitals and clinics, via telephone. Looking at the calls routed through the Folio InterTel system, scenarios that are often dealt with include breaking the news 38 Business Events Africa May 2018

www.businesseventsafrica.com

Service focus

away

to patients that they are HIV positive, or communicating to them how to take their TB medications. Results from blood tests, and assistance to parents with paediatric care are also often relayed. A straightforward instruction on when to take your medication, becomes tricky if the patient understands neither the medical professional, nor the instructions on their medication written in English. Folio InterTel also provides much needed South African sign language (SASL) interpreting in various scenarios, such as maternity or psychiatric consultation sessions, where the language barrier may have caused great challenges in the past, or even prevented patients from seeking help at all. A simple thing like waiting for your name to be called in a clinic, would cause a hearing impaired patient to completely miss their appointment because they cannot hear their name. Now an SASL interpreter representing www.businesseventsafrica.com

Folio waits with them, and assists them through the entire clinic procedure. SASL interpreters are providing a solution to doctors who have struggled with the immense and nuanced issues encountered during psychiatric consultations. Issues that would be challenging when the patient is not hearing impaired, becomes insurmountable without a sign language interpreter. Although the Department of Health in the Western Cape had SASL interpreters available for hearing impaired patients in the past, we are very proud to have taken the relay baton over from them to expand and grow the service to the levels so desperately needed. Folio InterTel provides a platform for patients and medical staff alike to reach out and request interpreting at any of the public facilities we serve. If you have ever made an effort to communicate with someone in their own language, you would know that there is

something special about seeing their faces light up and become more receptive to your message. As an interpreter myself, when I take a call from an English speaking doctor to assist an Afrikaans patient – often elderly people from rural areas, or small and frightened children – there is an immediate sense of relief in the patient’s voice when they realise they can openly share their pain and concerns with me in their own language. They trust me to interpret for them into a language they are not fluent in. To take each word, and translate it with the emotion it is spoken with, together with the context and tone, is a constant challenge and immense responsibility. This is why we at Folio InterTel monitor the quality of our interpreters and their training on a daily basis, because we know it is not a job anyone can do, just because they are bilingual. Folio’s goal is to eventually expand this service into other public service domains such as home affairs, police departments, immigration centres and banks. This could act as a very valuable service for anyone in the country, whether it be a tourist, a conference attendee, an immigrant, or a local in an area where their vernacular is not spoken. The interpreters can be reached on a mobile phone or normal landline, any time from 08:00-17:00: hours which will eventually be extended. At the moment, it is as close to instant connectivity to an interpreter that you will get. Even though sign language interpreting is currently only provided on-site, a video interpreting functionality will also be launched in the near future. As long as there is an internet or data connection, communication gaps can easily be bridged.

Who is Caro van Aardt? Caro van Aardt is a project manager at Folio Online, and manages the InterTel service. She has an MA degree in Afrikaans linguistics from the North-West University, and is a trained simultaneous interpreter.

Business Events Africa May 2018 39

Personality profile

This industry is not for sissies Determined Robyn D’Alessandro, 55, national marketing manager of Gearhouse Group of Companies has been involved in many aspects of theatre and live events for 35 years.

“B

y the time I graduated from University, I was already fairly entrenched at the Market Theatre and progressed from dresser to lighting technician, assistant stage manager and stage manager pretty fast. “I also spent three years touring internationally with the first iteration of the iconic protest musical “Sophiatown” and later “Two Weeks in September” – not much sleep, but what fantastic exposure to international standards and methodology for a technical youngster in some 30 different theatres around the world,” she said.

How do you see the business events industry in South Africa? The event industry is very strong and the core has maintained despite the economic downturn, particularly on the business events side of things. It has been a rough couple of years during which we have had to find creative ways of delivering on much higher expectations with significantly lower budgets. We have seen a definite increase in planned events in 2018, so I am hoping we have turned the corner and that the industry will continue to grow along with business confidence in the country.

Where did you grow up? I was born and grew up in Durban, and went to Berea Girls High. I left Durban two days after I matriculated to study a Fine Arts degree at Wits. I majored in English and Art History and graduated in 1984.

Where did you start your career? I entered university on bursaries and started working nights at the Market Theatre as a dresser as a means of paying the shortfall. Working under Mannie Manim was a fantastic foundation for anyone in the events industry. In 1989, I moved down to Durban to take on the role of musicals stage 40 Business Events Africa May 2018

manager at the Playhouse theatre – it was a lovely couple of years living near the rest of my family again and where I met my husband, Gary, an actor who was part of the Loft Theatre at the time. When the newly revamped Civic Theatre (now Joburg Theatre) opened with the promise of all new stage equipment and “state of the art” mechanised stages, I was probably the first applicant – I was that keen. I started as head of the stagemanagement department in a consultative role several months before the building opened in 1992 and stayed until 1997.

How did you get involved with Gearhouse? I had crossed paths with Ofer Lapid on and off since the early days of Johnny Clegg at the Market Theatre, watching with interest as he brought the first containers of equipment into the country and started trading as Lighting Unlimited. I met him again at the Civic when he was working in one of the venues, came to have a look at his company’s operation in Johannesburg and the rest, as they say, is history. I started with Lighting Unlimited in 1997 and have been with the company as it grew. 21 years on, I have explored many different roles and learnt inestimable amounts along the way.

What has been the biggest change you’ve seen in this sector? The sector has matured over this time. Technicians have gone from being “cowboys” in what was viewed as a glamorous industry to being very self-regulated in terms of safety, quality standards, working conditions and respect for our client’s needs.

What role does your family play in your life? I am married to Gary, who runs a corporate wear and display materials company. My family are truly “my everything”. I have a 17-year-old

daughter named Juno and an 18-yearold son Leo, both of whom are creative, artistic performers.

Do you have any hobbies? I am an artist; sculptor and oil painter.

What do you do for leisure? I always have some sort of project on the go. Nothing makes me happier than a hands-on project like digging up and repaving the driveway or sanding down a wooden door.

What is your secret to success? Well, my family sum me up as “determined” and I suppose that is it really. I never give up; I will keep at the challenge until I work out how to accomplish it.

What has been your biggest challenge in this sector? Being a woman in a male-dominated industry. It’s not that it has ever been discouraging, it just meant that sometimes I needed to double my efforts to be taken seriously.

What is your pet hate? Laziness, buck passing and self-pity. There is no time for that.

What is the most memorable place you have ever been to, and why? Indonesia, Bali. It is a veritable feast for the senses and heaven for a hedonist with on-the-beach massages, warm waters and fragrant food at every street stall.

What advice do you have for anyone starting out in this industry and hoping to follow in your footsteps? If you love this industry go for it. If not, beat a hasty retreat. It’s not for sissies so you will need plenty of passion and stamina to see you through. www.businesseventsafrica.com

SAACI news

Service is the golden ticket By Rudi Van Der Vyver, chief executive officer of SAACI

Service is a topic I am personally very passionate about. Irrespective of industry and whether you are in a service related field or product related field, interaction with people will always be a part of business in some way, shape or form.

e often tend to think B2B (business to business) focused enterprises do not need to put as much focus on service or business relationships as consumer-focused enterprises, which is rather baffling. Do we then do business with the bricks and mortar of a company? Surely the person signing the contract has a heartbeat, a mind and more important feelings. Service is a very personal aspect of business and is one of the most important elements in building lasting, beneficial business relationships. Service and the levels thereof has various sub elements which leads to building – or destroying – a business relationship. Exceeding client expectations is another big element to establish a strong

relationship and this is again not that difficult, the basic marketing principle of “under promise, over deliver” applies here. A supplier today could be your next big client tomorrow! Decency, respect and a smile costs nothing but the return on this very basic investment will be seen 10-fold in your business. Service is a great equaliser in the business world and if it receives the correct focus and priority it could very easily turn into a major advantage over your competitors and could even become your USP (unique selling point). There are various models, concepts and ideas on how to up service levels internally within an organisation but for today let’s just look at five that are easy to introduce and control on a day to

day basis with minimum capital outlay. • A service culture must start from the top! Owners, executives and managers should all live the culture from the top down. • Reward good service openly and regularly to further drive the culture throughout the organisation. • Make service ratings part of the day to day KPI’s and KPA’s of all team members (whether they are client facing or not. • Ensure all team members are experts in their field. This is a training function and it is crucial for good service levels to ensure all team members are knowledgeable regarding their products or services. • Smiling costs nothing! You can hear a smile over the phone…and so much more when the interaction is in person.

AAXO news

Global Village collaboration to boost exhibition industry By Carol Weaving, chairperson of the Association of African Exhibition Organisers (AAXO)

The single most important step to grow the local exhibition industry is to strengthen ties with industry bodies around the world, said Carol Weaving, chairperson of the Association of African Exhibition Organisers (AAXO)

peaking ahead of the 2018 Southern African Association for the Conference Industry Congress, Ms Weaving, said the ‘global village’ phenomenon could not be ignored. “Africa cannot afford to be left out of the mix as international exhibition and eventing bodies build closer ties,” she said. “International partnerships pave the way to reciprocal events and new, mutually beneficial opportunities.

With that in mind, AAXO has been working proactively to strengthen ties with industry bodies around the world, and to raise Africa’s profile as a vibrant market presenting a wealth of exciting opportunities.” AAXO recently signed a strategic agreement with its Italian counterpart, the Italian Exhibition and Trade Fair Association (AEFI), to support bilateral growth and collaboration.

AAXO will also participate in the upcoming Indian Exhibition Industry IEIA Open Seminar in Hyderabad, India, in May this year, to strengthen ties with the significant Indian market, where over 700 professional trade fairs take place every year. In addition, AAXO is strengthening alliances with US industry bodies, and plan to participate in training and collaborative opportunities in North America later this year. “These alliances pave the way for international businesses looking to enter the African market, but they also open doors to local stakeholders seeking access to international markets,” Ms Weaving said. “AAXO’s campaign to strengthen ties with global players is designed to keep Africa firmly on the ‘global village’ map as an important player in the global exhibition industry,” she concluded.

SITE news

Milestone index study on incentive travel announced The volunteer and management leadership of the Society for Incentive Travel Excellence (SITE), the Financial and Insurance Conference Professionals (FICP), and the Incentive Research Foundation (IRF) are proud to announce the development of the industry’s first joint index study: The Incentive Travel Industry Index powered by SITE Index, IRF Outlook and FICP.

his collaboration will constitute a landmark for the industry by providing unprecedented, consolidated insight into where the incentive travel industry is headed. The Incentive Travel Industry Index, produced on an annual basis, will provide a forecast and analysis of business conditions, attitudes and expectations impacting the incentive travel and motivational events industry. It will explore how the various industry challenges are impacting market growth for both buyers and suppliers and will provide leading indicators of future trends. This consolidated piece of research, executed by JD Power, will be the definitive annual index of the state of the incentive travel industry and its major trends.

Key benefits of the study: • Provides necessary decision-making insights and trends for corporate meeting and incentive planners, third parties and suppliers of the incentive travel industry on an annual basis. • Based on a single unique, allencompassing questionnaire avoiding cross-industry duplication and consistency. • Will be released early enough to coincide with the marketing and budgeting cycle of most organisations. • Promoted by an extensive go-tomarket plan and sessions held at the various associations’ events as well as major trade shows. Didier Scaillet, CIS, Melissa Van Dyke and Steve Bova, the respective executive

leaders of SITE, IRF and FICP issued a joint statement: “Along with our individual organisation’s esteemed board of directors and trustees, we look forward to continuing to amplify our respective roles as leading voices within the incentive travel industry and to helping our industry grow from this ground-breaking collaboration.” The collaboration hopes to release the survey instrument for response as early as late May with results available a few months later.

What we’re all about: motivational experiences Why we do it? Business results! Site is the only global network of travel and event professionals committed to motivational experiences that deliver business results. Site provides insights and connections that inspire the utilisation of this powerful tool across diverse industries, regions and cultures. Site serves as a source of knowledge and best practices where members can make personal connections that sustain professional growth. Only one organisation sits at the critical intersection between those who seek the benefits of motivational tools and those who can provide these extraordinary experiences. That organisation is Site...

Contact

Email: info@sitesouthernafrica.com www.sitesouthernafrica.com www.siteglobal.com

Market news

ExpoGuys grows African portfolio

By Patrick Cronning, joint owner of ExpoGuys

ExpoGuys are proud about our achievements over the past 12 months. We have proved that with dedication a company’s growth does not necessarily compromise on quality of service to all our clients. We look forward to further growth and improving our delivery of quality projects during 2018 and beyond.

frica is fast becoming an even bigger part of our portfolio. So far during 2018, apart from 63 local projects, ExpoGuys have completed 12 events in Cape Town and a 357 m2 pavilion in Lagos for the German Government. A South African and Nigerian team was tasked to build one of the most breath taking German architectural designs in a very short space of time, together with challenges that one faces in most African countries when it comes to building

an exhibition. Stock was flown in from China and Johannesburg to Lagos where the project was completed on time to our high standards and the total satisfaction of a very meticulous client. In addition to this, we completed projects at ZITF and at the moment a container is on the water heading for East Africa. All this while our normal operation in South Africa continues building events like World Travel Market, parts of Rand Show, Decorex Durban, Cape

Town and Johannesburg in August, along with many other projects. In March 2018 we took our next step and secured offices and a warehouse in Montague Gardens, Cape Town. Our offices are officially stocked with printing machines, vinyl cutters and a good stock holding to deliver any job at quick and cost-effective timelines. In addition, our dedicated support vehicle is always on standby to move any Johannesburg stock to Cape Town to boost our production facility.

Advertisers’ index

May 2018 Vol 38 No 5 ADVERTISER

PAGE EMAIL

WEBSITE

AAXO

aaxo@aaxo.co.za

www.aaxo.co.za

Ardmor Hospitality – Monate Game Lodge

22,23

info@monatelodge.com

www.monatelodge.com

Birchwood

OBC

reservations@birchwoodhotel.co.za

www.birchwoodhotel.co.za

Expo Centre Johannesburg

36,37

info@expocentre.co.za

www.expocentre.co.za

Expo Guys

info@expoguys.co.za

www.expoguys.co.za

EXSA

exsa@exsa.co.za

www.exsa.co.za

Folio Translation Consultants

38,39

pziets@folio-online.co.za

www.folio-online.co.za

Hayward's Safari Sanctuary

OFC, 6-8 info@haywardsafaris.com

www.haywardsafaris.com

Peermont Global

reservations@peermont.com

www.peermont.com

Plaslope

glenda.aereboe@plaslope.com

www.plaslope.com

SAACI

IFC, 41

info@saaci.co.za

www.saaci.co.za

SITE

info@sitesouthernafrica.com

www.sitesouthernafrica.com

South African Tourism

9-16

convention@southafrica.net

www.businessevents.southafrica.net

Spier Hotel & Conference Centre

24,25

conference@spier.co.za

www.spier.co.za

The Westin Cape Town

01445.groupreservations@westin.com

www.westincapetown.com

Tsogo Sun Group – Silverstar

32-33

silverstar.banqueting@tsogosun.com

www.silverstar.co.za

44 Business Events Africa May 2018

www.businesseventsafrica.com

Calendar

Conferences, workshops and exhibitions of interest to the conference, exhibition and special events market For free entries in this calendar, please supply information to editorial@businesseventsafrica.com LOCAL 2018 6-7 JUNE 2018: Markex/Madex Venue: Sandton Convention Centre, Johannesburg Tel:+27 (0)11 835 1565 www.markex.co.za

Johannesburg Tel: +27 (0)11 783 7250 Email: info@africabig7.com www.africabig7.com/africa-hospitalityweek/

13-14 JUNE 2018: The Event Greening Forum’s 2018 Conference & Master Class Venue: the forum white light, Lanseria Tel: +27 (0)82 891 5883 Email: lynn@eventgreening.co.za www.eventgreening.co.za/egf-2018conference

23-25 JULY: SATSA 2018 Conference Venue: The Boardwalk Hotel, Port Elizabeth Email: conference@satsa.co.za www.satsa.com/satsa-2018-conference

24-26 JUNE: Africa Hospitality Week Venue: Gallagher Convention Centre,

INTERNATIONAL: 2018 15-17 MAY: IMEX in Frankfurt Venue: Halle 8, Messe Frankfurt, Frankfurt | www.imex-frankfurt.com 4-6 JUNE 2018: FIEXPO Latin America | Venue: Santiago de Chile, Chile | www.fiexpolatinoamerica.com 27-28 JUNE 2018: The Meetings Show Venue: London, United Kingdom www.themeetingsshow.com 29 JUNE-1 JULY: ICCA Association Meetings Programme.

29-31 JULY: SAACI Congress 2018 Venue: Misty Hills in Muldersdrift, Johannesburg. For more info contact: Ripcord Promotions Venue: Fukuoka, Japan. More information: ICCA Netherlands. Tel: +31 20 398 1902 5-6 SEPTEMBER 2018: ibtm Americas Venue: Mexico City, Mexico www.ibtmamericas.com

Tel: +27 (0)11 482 2835 Email: info@saacicongress.org or saaci2018@ripcord.za.com Or SAACI Head Office Tel: +27 (0)11 880 5883 Email: info@saaci.orgwww.saaci. eventsair.com/saaci-2018-congress/ saaci2018/Site/Register www.saacicongress.org 12 -14 SEPTEMBER: SIGN AFRICA JHB Venue: Gallagher Convention Centre, Johannesburg Tel: +27 (0)11 450 1650 Email: info@practicalpublishing.com www.practicalpublishingexpo.com

31 OCTOBER-3 NOVEMBER: 85th Congress of the UFI Venue: Expoforum, Saint Petersburg, Russian Federation www.ufi.org/ufievent/85th-ufi-globalcongress

12-13 SEPTEMBER 2018: ibtm china Venue: Beijing, China www.cibtm.com

11-14 NOVEMBER: 57th ICCA Congress Venue: Dubai, UAE Tel: +31203981902 www.iccaworld.org

16-18 OCTOBER: IMEX America Venue: Sands Expo, Las Vegas, USA www.imexamerica.com

27-29 NOVEMBER 2018: ibtm world Venue: Barcelona, Spain www.ibtmworld.com

TEL: +27 11 452 1115 FAX: +27 11 452 3609 WEBSITE: www.plaslope.com EMAIL: glenda.aereboe@plaslope.com

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Business Events Africa April 2018 45