Meetings SA Nov/Dec 2012

meetings • incentives • conferences • exhibitions

CHAMPAGNE SPORTS RESORT

Taking conferencing to new heights

Move business into the bus

h

Terrific team building All things wedding

R35.00 (VAT incl)

www.saconference.co.za

ISSUE 46 Nov/Dec 2012

31726

INM RHNK KHHML =HPG BG MA> KB@AM IE:<> :G= PAH DGHPL AHP ;B@ RHN EE @KHP8

*LYH \RXU HYHQW WKH VWDWXUH LW GHVHUYHV :LWK RYHU P RI FRYHUHG H[KLELWLRQ VSDFH DQG RYHU P RXWGRRUV ZH KDYH WKH Ã&#x20AC;H[LELOLW\ WR JLYH \RXU HYHQW OLIH

F>>MBG@

rhnk ]^fZg]l

>Q<>>=BG@

r rhnk ^qi^\mZmbhgl i

3XW \RXU URRWV GRZQ DW ([SR &HQWUH -RKDQQHVEXUJ &DOO XV DQG ZH¶OO KHOS \RX FUHDWH DQRWKHU $IULFDQ OHJHQG

www.expocentre.co.za Cnr Rand Show & Nasrec Roads, JHB Tel: +27(11) 494 1920 Fax: +27(11) 494 1005 Email: info@expocentre.co.za

C O N T E N T S

On the cover CHAMPAGNE SPORTS RESORT Boasting a total of 16 conference venues: there's no better place to meet than at the foothills of a natural heritage site.

in this issue Industry Insight Ed's Insight Conferencing in Africa AIPC Column Exploring the industry's softer side Headline Leisure Management It's all about giving back MICE Speak How to be a real pro

Meeting Places Sandton Convention Centre A global melting pot Arniston Spa Hotel Conference with a view

14

Global flavour

4 6 8 12

Legacy Hotels Make memories at Kwa Maritane Club Mykonos Little Greece's new look Madikwe Safari Lodge A bush business experience ATKV Affordable, excellent venues Johannesburg Expo Centre Keeping risk low Peermont Spectacular enter tainment

14 15 16 18 20 22 24 25

Event Management Oasys Innovations A new dimension Intercape A company history

25

Naughty but nice

VastraTech Effective meetings explained Wedded Bliss The wedding industry's influences

26 28 29 30

In the Know EXSA Industry matchmaking Compex Growing the exhibition sector

33 34

Reward & Develop Down with dull meetings

29

USB Speakers Corner Tips for the future

35

Team Building What a year it's been

36

Regulars Ed's Letter Who's Who Product News Coming Up & Looking Back Events Diary Index to Advertisers

3 37 38 39 40 40

CONTRIBUTORS Helen Brewer CMP is the director of the MICE Academy and co-owns Conpromark Consultants.

Edgar Hirt is president of the AIPC and MD of Congress Centre Hamburg (CCH).

Nigel Walker CMP is MD of Complete Exhibitions and chairman of EXSA.

MEETINGS SA | NOV/DEC 2012

1

SUNCONNECT CONNECTING PEOPLE WITH PLACES ACROSS AFRICA

BOOK YOUR CONFERENCE WITH OUR EXPERIENCED SUNCONNECT TEAM TODAY

SUNCONNECT – YOUR GATEWAY TO TSOGO SUN’S CONFERENCING, HOSPITALITY, EVENTS AND ENTERTAINMENT PORTFOLIO Connect One call to SunConnect holds the key to all your requirements – accommodation, banqueting, special events, team building, dining, gaming, theatre and a world of entertainment…

Select SunConnect offers you over 250 Tsogo Sun venues across more than 90 hotels and 14 casinos – all situated in premier locations across Africa. Our properties range from deluxe to economy brands including Southern Sun Hotels, Garden Court, Sandton Convention Centre, Montecasino, Gold Reef City and Suncoast Casino.

Need an intimate boardroom near the city, a banqueting and accommodation package in the country, a beachfront launch or hospitality for the latest Broadway Musical – SunConnect offers you the widest selection accommodating 10 to 5000 people.

Customise Are you drawn to the glitz and glamour; prefer the simple to the spectacular; modest to mad or minimalist to the magnificent.

Our 42 years of experience in the industry combined with our professional streamlined service, technical savvy solutions and fresh innovative menus are all an assurance of a unique and memorable event.

Let SunConnect connect you to these, and many more offers. Tel: + 27(11) 367 4250 E-mail: sunconnect.reservations@tsogosun.com • 250+ Venues = 53 000m2 • 90+ Hotels = 14 500+ Rooms • 5 Theatres • 14 Casinos • 300+ Restaurants

ED'S LETTER

meetings • incentives • conferences • exhibitions

SA

Publisher Elizabeth Shorten Associate publisher Ferdie Pieterse Editor Julia Mafcher julia@3smedia.co.za • +27 (0)11 233 2634 Head of design Frédérick Danton Senior designer Hayley Mendelow Chief sub-editor Claire Nozaic Sub-editor Patience Gumbo Production manager Antois-Leigh Botma Production coordinator Jacqueline Modise Financial manager Andrew Lobban Administration Tonya Hebenton Distribution manager Nomsa Masina Distribution coordinator Asha Pursotham Marketing and online manager Martin Hiller Advertising sales Caroline Martin +27 (0)11 454 6051/2 • +27 (0)72 235 5725 caroline@pinpoint.co.za

MEETINGS SA Nov/Dec 2012 © Copyright. All rights reserved 2012

No. 4, 5th Avenue, Rivonia, Johannesburg PO Box 92026, Norwood 2117, South Africa Tel: +27 (0)11 233 2600 • Fax: +27 (0)11 234 7274/75 www.3Smedia.co.za Annual subscription: R270.00 (incl. VAT) subs@3smedia.co.za ISSN 1684-9264 NOTICE OF RIGHTS Meetings SA is published bi-monthly by 3S Media.

This publication, its form and contents vests in 3S Media, September 2012. All rights reserved. No part of this book, including cover and interior designs, may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording or by any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the publisher, nor be otherwise circulated in any form of binding or cover other than that in which it is published and without a similar condition being imposed on the subsequent purchaser.

A wealthy, healthy, happy 2013

A

s I write this, I’m sitting at the SAPHILA 2012 Conference, the biggest systems, applications and products (SAP) customer-run conference on African soil. The theme, ‘The moment is now’, explores how we can use technology today – not tomorrow, in a week or in a year’s time – in order for both big and small companies and organisations to grow globally. An almost 2 000 delegate attendance is an impressive turn out for an industry that’s taken a knock due to, I hate to say it, the global economic crisis.

In the past five months, I’ve attended four conferences. The running theme: Africa. Over the next decade, South Africa, and the whole continent, will become one of the biggest driving forces of the world economy. Exciting? I think so.

Mauritius, too, has become a popular MICE industry and business tourism destination for business meetings and conferences, as well as for staff incentive travel. I saw this for myself on a recent trip to the exquisite island. Conferencing facilities on offer at the resorts I

visited were exceptional and could compete with many of our local top facilities and venues. Next edition, I’ll feature some of these venues in our special ‘Conferencing in Mauritius’ piece, so be sure to read it.

That brings me to this month’s issue.

We’ve brought you a wedding focus feature on service providers – how they contribute to, and what their influence is, in the wedding industry. We also have some great venues in Meeting Places, including Madikwe Safari Lodge, where bush and business meet.

While in Mauritius, I came across a Buddha outside one of the main markets and put into practice the popular folklore belief that rubbing his belly brings wealth, good luck and prosperity. As 2012 was a difficult year for some, be it financially or otherwise, my wish for you is wealth, good luck and prosperity in 2013.

So enjoy the festive season and I’ll see you back in January 2013 with another jam-packed Meetings SA issue.

While every precaution has been taken in the preparation and compilation of this publication, the publisher assumes no responsibility for errors, omissions, completeness or accuracy of its contents, or for damages resulting from the use of the information contained herein. While every effort has been taken to ensure that no copyright or copyright issues is/ are infringed, 3S Media, its directors, publisher, officers and employees cannot be held responsible and consequently disclaim any liability for any loss, liability damage, direct or consequential of whatsoever nature and howsoever arising.

MEETINGS SA | NOV/DEC 2012

3

I N D U S T R Y I N S I G H T • E d ' s I n s i g h t • BY JULIA MAFCHER

Hello Africa Conferencing around the continent As more companies take their clients and staff into Africa for business, Kenya Airways sales manager for SA, Helena Maxwell talks about the lucrative business tourism and conferencing in the rest of the continent.

A

ccording to the International Congress and Conventions Association (ICCA) report of 2011, Africa’s Associations market share grew by a cumulative 1.3% in the past four years while Europe has fallen by just under a per cent. This trend, demonstrating Africa’s significance as a cyclical conference destination, is expected to continue.

With major strides towards improved infrastructure, communication and growth in digital networks across the continent, it’s not a surprising statistic. That, married with the fact that development in Africa is booming and favourable economic ties with emerging super powers such as India and China are in Take your business to the Kenyatta International Conference Centre

place, Africa is poised and ready for its role on the world conferencing stage.

The continent is battling misperceptions and a certain level of ignorance of its ability to support the requirements of largescale conferencing, yet the SADC and East African regions boast world-class conference facilities, a burgeoning regional air traffic network and state-of-the-art information and communication technology (ICT) capabilities.

Kenya received a recent boost when its fourth submarine high-speed communications network went live in April this year. The network line extends a total 3 000 km from Mauritius, via the island of Mayotte in the northern Mozambique Channel, to Nyali, and has significantly boosted the nation’s bandwidth. Kenya already enjoys connectivity through the East African Marine System, the Eastern Africa Submarine Cable System and SEACOM. The nation also benefits Kenya Airways has an extensive network across Africa

4

MEETINGS SA | NOV/DEC 2012

from 6 000 km of inland fibre optic cabling – amply sufficient to offer world-class communications.

Kenya was the first country in Africa to introduce digital maps; it offers effective mobile and rural banking, boasts the largest number of active opera-mini users in Africa and has its very own social network: mashada.com. Add to that its online realtime traffic monitoring system for all major roads in Nairobi, and you have the beginnings of a technologically advanced African destination.

Growth projections are also expected to be high because of the upgrade of the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi where a new terminal is being introduced.

This will cater to more destinations and frequencies in Africa, and will encourage additional international airlines to operate to this hub. Further growth will no

doubt be fuelled by Africa’s status as a often not financed out of a delegate’s burgeoning market. personal savings, but is taken care of by A recent GSMA Mobile Observatory report the employer or sponsor. Furthermore, stated that Africa is currently the second research shows that up to 40% of conference biggest market for mobile technology in the delegates will return to a host country for a world, with 649 million handset owners on personal or family holiday. the continent. Of this, 42 million are South As one of Africa’s largest airlines with an African mobile phone extensive network across owners, and 23.5 million the continent, Kenya are Kenyan.

Airways understands the A comparison between unique circumstances of the two nations shows that the continent and offers South Africa has an 84% the necessary flexibility mobile phone penetration for air travel to meet the among adults, as opposed to prospective demand for Kenya’s 56%. Internet user group travel in Africa. information shows a similar Standard services for trend with Kenya revealing group bookings include 2.6 million fewer internet advanced seating and users compared to South highly personalised Africa’s 6.8 million. It’s not assistance with check-in, “ Conferencing in hard to see why South Africa is luggage management and Africa offers more also marked as pioneer when it transfers. Furthermore, than just a boost comes to technology in Africa. through its recent in business Such an influx of business network expansion and tourism through conferencing fleet advancements, tourism.” Helena is beneficial to economic the airline can modify Maxwell, sales manager growth, supports tourism equipment allocation for Kenya Airways, suppliers across the continent, per route according to South Africa including African airlines, while demand. Therefore, creating a critical mass of should a large booking experts to facilitate the creation of solutions substantially increase seating demand, for sustainable development in the continent. equipment can be selected to satisfy The head of research and project such demand. development at the Kenyatta International Conferencing in Africa offers more than Conference Centre, Daniel Muoka, says that merely a boost in business tourism in the the estimated economic contribution of region, it creates a gateway to progress for its conference delegates’ expenditure is five vast and high potential developing nations. times that of a holiday tourist. This is mostly www.kenya-airways.com due to the nature of the travel, which is

An increased conferencing demand The list below shows numerous international conferences are being held across the continent: • The Oil & Gas Forum DRC 2012 was held from 16 to 18 October 2012 in Kinshasa, which is evident of the country’s oil and gas sector fast becoming the new frontier in DRC’s extractive industries.

• From 5 to 6 December, the East Africa Summit 2012 will be held in Kigali, Rwanda. The summit will facilitate open debate on the region’s future prospects and potential, highlighting recent discoveries of offshore gas in Tanzania and oil in Kenya, proving East Africa’s potential to become one of the world’s fastest growing markets.

• For 18 years, Investing in African Mining Indaba has been at the forefront of African mining. Each year the event is well attended, with over 6 500 delegates representing more than 1 000 international companies. It’s held annually at the CTICC. The next African Mining Indaba is scheduled for 4 to 7 February 2013.

• Also in South Africa, the Africa Energy Indaba Conference will be held from 19 to 21 February 2013 at the Sandton Convention Centre. The conference will discuss, debate and seek solutions to enable adequate energy generation across the continent.

• Abuja, Nigeria, will host the seventh Pan-Commonwealth Forum on Open Learning (PCF7) in November next year. The five-day programme is designed to explore applications of open and distance learning in widening educational access, bridging the digital divide and advancing the social and economic development of communities and nations at large.

MEETINGS SA | NOV/DEC 2012

5

I N D U S T R Y I N S I G H T • A I P C • BY EDGAR HIRT

EVOLUTION OF THE INDUSTRY

Are we keeping up?

PART 2

Spatial configurations are one of the most challenging areas for convention centres, but what about equally important things like technology, services and business relations?

Exploring the industry’s ‘softer side’

N

owhere have expectations changed faster than in the world of technology. Innovations like social networking can create expectations and agendas far in advance of an event, and both sessions and presentations require increasingly sophisticated support – up to and including remote participation.

The good news is that much of the new technology is wireless and user-driven, which means that the main challenge for centres is often more related to capacity than hardware.

However, there's also some bad news: new technology and capacity have to be paid for and as expectations for free services grow, the ability to finance required additions becomes a huge challenge. This can create tensions that make it more difficult for centres and their clients to come to an understanding, particularly in times where finances are strained all around.

Another big technology question is based on the fact that, as perhaps the most

6

MEETINGS SA | NOV/DEC 2012

rapid area of change, it requires constant monitoring and updating of both equipment and expertise, raising questions like what to invest in and who should do the investing. Inhouse vs outsourcing has therefore become another part of the puzzle: should centres be making these investments themselves or look to outside suppliers to both supply the expertise and take the risk?

Will larger events of the future be more likely to arrive with their own technology and, if so, how will this interface with inhouse capabilities? Will areas like virtual or hybrid meetings eventually require dedicated spaces, complicating the configuration issue even further? These are all questions that centres need to address in order to be better prepared for all eventualities.

Food and beverage: a distinguishing feature One area that has evolved more than most is the matter of more sophisticated food and beverage offerings. In fact, this has, in many

cases, become a defining factor for many events and a big issue for both planners and delegates. Here again, centres have responded with innovation and creativity, to the point where one of the primary selling features for many centres is their cuisine and how it not only delivers quality but often reflects the local experience too. One feature of particular note is how many centres now address their sustainability agenda through meal services, with local food products and sustainable preparation forming an important part of the product offering.

Unlike other areas, this seems to be one where there’s a general willingness by clients to pay for what they get. As a result, it’s become an important factor in maintaining reasonable revenues even when traditional revenues for space and services erode.

Support service expectations are growing Another area increasing demand is that of overall event servicing, sometimes extending

INDUSTRY INSIGHT â&#x20AC;˘ AIPC

to assistance with on-site coordination. Many centres are now being called upon to deliver these higher levels of event support, not only because of increasing event complexity, but because the clientâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own resources may have been reduced as a result of corporate or association cutbacks and outsourcing too.

Generally, centres have done everything they can to accommodate such requests, but when it reaches a point where they need to beef up their own staff, it quickly becomes a matter of cost increases and the question of who will pay. Interim measures are something everyone tries to address. However, as expectations continue to rise it again challenges the whole financial equation.

New conditions, new relationships A large chunk of the financial basis for the meetings industry was built on the willingness of governments to invest in

facilities that would attract major events in return for an anticipated benefit of economic surge from delegate spending.

The formula still works, but more and more

Various centres are now exploring new models for how risk and reward are shared governments are simply incapable of making the major investments required to build and maintain costly facilities. Furthermore, this can only be expected to get worse, at least for the foreseeable future, while global economic uncertainties remain. Under these conditions, the expectation that centres will continue to make major concessions in order to secure business becomes less realistic, and alternatives need to be considered.

Various centres are now exploring new models for how risk and reward are

shared, including rent concessions in return for participation in any upside that may result from increased attendance.

Similarly, strategies that reduce costs and increase certainty, such as multiyear agreements or guarantees of particular service levels, can introduce new ways of ensuring everyone benefits from a successful event.

These will have to be the innovations of the future if thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s to be the kind of equitable distribution of costs and benefits needed to sustain the industry.

Good communication is the key to all these issues and should be top priority for centres and clients alike. Knowing what each party is facing and being willing to pursue collective solutions has been a key to success in the past and will be even more important as we evolve together into the future. marianne.de.raay@aipc.org or visit www.aipc.org

MEETINGS SA | NOV/DEC 2012

7VKHROD 'LQDUH LV D WUDYHO DQG WRXU RSHUDWRU HVWDEOLVKHG ZLWK D FXVWRPHU LQ PLQG :H DOVR WDNH FDUH WR WUXO\ XQGHUVWDQG XQLTXH :H DOVR WDNH FDUH WR WUXO\ XQGHUVWDQG XQLTXH XQGHUVWDQG XQLTXH W L W G G OL Ă LEO O WL FXVWRPHU UHTXLUHPHQWV DQG GHOLYHU Ă H[LEOH VROXWLRQV :H RIIHU FXVWRPLVHG WUDQVSRUW VHUYLFHV WR FRUSRUDWH FOLHQWV JURXSV DQG LQGLYLGXDOV LQ DQG RXW RI *DXWHQJ 7VKHROD 'LQDUH LV D KRXU WUDQVSRUW VHUYLFH SURYLGHU 285 2))(5,1*6 $5( Â&#x2021; 7UDQVSRUW &RUSRUDWH (YHQW 6KXWWOHV /X[XU\ &RDFKHV 3ULYDWH +LUH 7RXU $GYHQWXUH *URXQG +DQGOLQJ Â&#x2021; %XVLQHVV FRQFLHUJH VHUYLFHV %&6

7VKHROD 'LQDUH WRXUV WUDQVSRUW

)RU ERRNLQJ DQG HQTXLULHV 7HO $IWHU KRXUV RQ (PDLO LQIR#GLQDUHWRXUV FR ]D ZZZ GLQDUHWRXUV FR ]D

7

I N D U S T R Y I N S I G H T • H e a d l i n e Le i s u re M a n a g e m e n t

Giving back In March, April and May this year, Headline Leisure Management ran the Giving Back Conference Package promotion ‒ and what a success it was.

8

MEETINGS SA | NOV/DEC 2012

I N D U S T R Y I N S I G H T • H e a d l i n e Le i s u re M a n a g e m e n t

T

he Giving Back Conference Package promotion promised to donate R5 for every delegate booked at one of Headline Leisure Management’s (HLM) venues. These were: Sibaya Casino, GrandWest Casino, Windmill Casino, Flamingo Casino, Meropa Casino, Windmill Casino, Joburg Theatre and Johannesburg Zoo. The funds raised in each province were used to purchase e’Pap, e’Soup and e’Spread peanut butter, which was then allocated to a local charity. HLM raised R69 329,10 for the initiative, amounting to a total of 3.63 tonnes of food distributed to the poorest in the local communities.

The organisations that benefited were: At only R38, e’Pap World Vision Thaba Nchu referred to as the ‘miracle (Free State), Etafeni Day Care Centre in food’, can feed one child Foundation, used Gugulethu (Western for a month their expertise Cape), Sword of the to help identify E’Pap as the organisation Spirit (KwaZulu-Natal), Philani Community that would have the largest impact on the Development in Zuurbekom (Gauteng), identified communities.

Botshabelo Community Development Trust e’Pap was created in 2000 as a social in Magaliesburg (Gauteng), Tshepang Orphan responsibility project by Basil Kransdorff.

Support in Galeshewe (Northern Cape) He collaborated with the world’s food and the Bokoni mines (Limpopo), which fortification experts to make a formula that generously doubled the donation to benefit delivers many of the micronutrients found the surrounding community. in a healthy, well balanced diet. Referred HLM with the assistance of its business to as the ‘miracle food’, at only R38, e’Pap partners, the non-profit P.E.A.C.E.

Children in Durban with their e’Pap

can feed one child for a month. The e’Pap technology focuses on addressing what’s called the ‘hidden hunger’ or micro nutrient deficiencies. Addressing this helps make those living in poverty nutrient replete so that they can become physiologically functional and therefore able to participate in finding solutions to their own challenges.

HLM will run the Giving Back promotion again in 2013 for the same period. www.headlineleisure.co.za

HLM staff members with the beneficiaries of the Tshepang Orphan Support in Galeshewe

MEETINGS SA | NOV/DEC 2012

9

For all your conferencing & year-end event needs, make HLM \RXU Ă&#x20AC;UVW M choice.

Contact us for various exciting year end options, Christmas Day lunches and New Year conference packages from venues across the country.

www.headlineleisure.co.za

(011) 452 8770 | mzwane@headlineleisure.com

GrandWest Casino and Entertainment World

Cape Town www.headlineleisure.co.za/sites-Grandwest.php (021) 505 7505 banquetinggw@za.suninternational.com

Sibaya Casino and Entertainment Kingdom

Durban www.headlineleisure.co.za/sites-Sibaya.php (031) 580 5171 restaurantsibaya@za.suninternational.com

Windmill Casino & Entertainment Centre

Bloemfontein www.headlineleisure.co.za/sites-Windmill.php (051) 410 2078 monique.vrensburg@za.suninternational.com

Meropa Casino and Entertainment World

Polokwane www.headlineleisure.co.za/sites-Meropa.php (015) 290 5487 meropa.banqueting@za.suninternational.com

The Joburg Theatre complex Theatre for a world class African city

Johannesburg www.headlineleisure.co.za/sites-JhbTheatre.php (011) 877 6834 hospitality@joburgtheatre.com

Flamingo Casino Kimberley www.headlineleisure.co.za/sites-Flamingo.php (053) 830 2677 banqueting.flamingo@za.suninternational.com

Joburg Zoo Johannesburg www.headlineleisure.co.za/sites-Zoo.php (011) 486 2452 functions2events@headlineleisure.com

I N D U S T R Y I N S I G H T • M I C E A C A D E M Y • BY HELEN BREWER

Pinpointing true MICE professionalism In the event management industry ethical behaviour is key

T

here are levels and degrees of ethical behaviour and, depending on the circumstances, we’ve all been tempted at one time or another to push the envelope to a questionable point. There’s the saying: ‘everyone has their price’.

Some people confuse ethics with clever tactics tantamount to sleight of hand practices. It’s therefore important to pinpoint what actually constitutes a professional MICE individual.

Dissecting the MICE Market Many opportunities exist within the industry for questionable antics, primarily due to a lack of control, monitoring and decisive disciplinary procedures.

Travel, tour and destination management companies, with the bulk of profit emanating from the peripheral MICE expenditure, such as accommodation, transport as well as food and beverage will ‘tag on’ the MICE organising tasks as a percentage of the MICE spend.

This percentage isn’t accurately predetermined, including the time factors, which can prove significant as well as the required expertise that accompany tasks. The percentage of a budgeted bottom line is, in many instances, whittled down from double digits to as low as 5% or less by the client.

How to be a MICE professional: • Presentation of a dynamic portfolio Whether employed or independent, the same practices should apply, with documented proof of past and ongoing achievements.

As an employer or business owner, the difference is the depth of company structure.

In the service industry where everyone and anyone may be a potential client, it’s essential to dress respectfully Going into 2013, the manner in which MICE business is practised will most likely take even more strain as suppliers and services compete on an uneven playing field. The unevenness stems from a shrinking market of smaller bottom-line profits. The role of the independent organiser has become – in real terms – any supplier or service to the MICE buyer.

12

MEETINGS SA | NOV/DEC 2012

The portfolio should include: client type, tasks undertaken per client and ongoing CPD points with authentic compliance certificates and an independent source of reference checks.

• By appointment every time Never show up unannounced at a venue. Being professional means providing all parties with the opportunity to prepare. Equally,

professionals need to be advised the expectations of an appointment in order to ensure that the requirements are met.

• Essential communication methods Invitations should be responded to whether accepted or apologies put forward. Basic etiquette must prevail wherever possible.

As a professional you should always spare more than a thought for the logistical arrangements. Being remembered for the wrong reasons is not good for a reputation.

Similarly, avoid misinformation by using words and phrases that may be construed in a negative context. The same applies when submitting or receiving a proposal – a short note of confirmed receipt is simple.

Keeping in touch is the professional key going forward.

• Appearance and attire Look the part and a professional will be the part. In the service industry where everyone and anyone may be a potential client, it’s essential to dress respectfully. There are times when dressing up is not possible. In this instance, a word of regret for one’s attire at the start of the meeting will show that respect hasn’t been overlooked.

• Financial charge and fee structures Proposals commence with a synopsis of the actual brief. The tasks to be undertaken should be itemised and briefly detailed as to what the MICE company will be carrying out, according to the requirements provided. Indicate the importance of certain tasks as a benefit towards fulfilling or enhancing the client’s requirements.

Ensure the fee structure is in keeping with the tasks and add value as a uniqueness of the MICE company, at no extra charge.

If your company accepts commissions it’s important to declare the terms on which the commissions may apply.

Be a proud MICE industry player with confidence in your knowledge and experience as a practising MICE professional. www.miceacademy.co.za

Rain or Shine MICE Academy Members

STAND OUT from the Crowd

&RPPHQFH \RXU YHU\ RZQ 3URIHVVLRQDO 3URÃ&#x20AC;OH and STAND OUT from the crowd 7HO Â&#x2021; )D[ Â&#x2021; 0RELOH (PDLO LQIR#PLFHDFDGHP\ FR ]D Â&#x2021; ZZZ PLFHDFDGHP\ FR ]D

MEDIA

MEETING PLACES • Sandton Convention Centre

Global flavour characterises 2012

2012 has reaffirmed Sandton Convention Centre s position as a leading convention destination in SA. Meetings SA explores the reasons.

From the glamour of the banquets hosted at SCC to the thought-leadership of the Discovery Leadership Summit, SCC has diverse capabilities and expertise

V

alidated by recognition of its status as the country’s ‘most technologically advanced convention centre’ by TPSA, and winner of Best Corporate Conference Venue 2012 in the BTAfrica Business Travel Awards, not to mention the plethora of global events taking place within its walls, Sandton Convention Centre is on a roll.

Events such as the groundbreaking Global African Diaspora Summit, held in May, have cemented Sandton Convention Centre’s

14

MEETINGS SA | NOV/DEC 2012

reputation as providing the platform for intercontinental development. The summit, which attracted more than 500 delegates including heads of state from 14 countries, and ministers and other dignitaries from 69 countries (50 were African countries), was a highlight for the African continent. It was also a triumph for South Africa, having been given the mandate by the African Union to organise and manage the event that holds such powerful significance for people of

African descent the world over. More recently, in September the entire multilevel building was taken over for the three-day 9th World Hindi Conference. Held in South Africa for the first time since its inception, the main theme of the conference was the dignity of language and global relevance of Hindi.

The programme included nine academic sessions and cultural programmes as well as exhibitions on various aspects of Hindi, including IT applications and an exhibition on the life and works of Mahatma Gandhi also formed part of the conference. The event was officially inaugurated by the minister of Finance, Pravin Gordhan, and officiated by the Indian minister of State External Affairs, Praneet Kaur.

“This was a significant event on our calendar because not only did it highlight the fact that Sandton remains the destination of choice for global events of this stature, it also reaffirmed the fact that the Sandton Convention Centre is capable of catering for vastly diverse cultural events that require in-depth knowledge and understanding of cultural nuances and dietary requirements,” says Mati Nyazema, executive director of Sandton Convention Centre.

A conference that has become one of Sandton Convention Centre’s signature events is the Discovery Invest Leadership Summit, which attracts CEOs, industry leaders and policymakers from across every sector of South African business.

“We are privileged to list the Discovery Invest Leadership Summit as one of our signature events and to play a role in providing the platform for releasing potential and refreshed thinking,” says Nyazema.

Adds Nyazema: “Apart from the professional expertise and myriad services we were able to offer to both the global and local event organisers who hosted events during 2012, we also have the strong benefit that we’re located in the heart of the Sandton business district.”

She concludes: “The confidence placed in us by our clients in both the public and private sector is indeed affirmation of our sincere belief that, ‘If you’re serious about doing business then the Sandton Convention Centre is where you should be’.” www.saconvention.co.za

MEETING PLACES • Arniston Spa Hotel

Have your cake and eat it... ...At Arniston Spa Hotel

T

he luxurious four-star Arniston Spa Hotel is located in the Overberg, one of the Cape’s most exquisite areas, next to the quaint fishing village Kassiesbaai. With the Indian Ocean splashing on your doorstep and white sandy beaches, you couldn’t ask for a more idyllic location.

The 60 luxurious rooms with breathtaking sea views are all equipped with the comforts of a world-class hotel. The restaurant offers scrumptious buffet breakfasts, delectable lunches, and fine dinners. The hotel is a great venue for conferences or corporate getaways, with a fully equipped conference venue that

seats up to 100 delegates. The hotel offers Wi-Fi throughout.

The Arniston Spa Hotel hosted many successful conferences this year. It’s not only the hotel’s professional service and warm hospitality, but also its fabulous location surrounded by pristine beaches and nature reserves.

Many beautiful and memorable weddings were hosted at the hotel in 2012 and it's established itself as one of the most popular wedding venues in the greater Overberg area. This year also saw the hotel upgrade the ground floor sea-facing rooms. Some of the rooms are now equipped with paraplegic bathrooms. www.arnistonhotel.com

MEETINGS SA | NOV/DEC 2012

The 4 Star

Arniston Spa Hotel The hotel offers full conference facilities with state-of-the-art equipment for up to 100 delegates. Standard equipment includes a proxima, overhead projector and screens, flipcharts, VCR and DVD, TV, microphone, pens and notepads. The luxurious 60 en-suite rooms are all elegantly decorated and have private balconies with panoramic ocean views or tranquil garden and pool views.

Tel: (028) 445 9000 / info@arnistonhotel.com www.arnistonhotel.com

15

M E E T I N G P L A C E S • Le g a c y H o t e l s

It’s better in the bush

Kwa Maritane Bush Lodge will leave a lasting legacy in the minds of your staff and clients.

Mouth-watering feasts in the Kwa Lefikeng Restaurant

Spoil yourself after a hard day

16

MEETINGS SA | NOV/DEC 2012

T

his year saw exquisite on the completion menus. of the latest The Kwa phase of the Kwa Bush Boma has Maritane Bush Lodge been upgraded refurbishment and showcases programme when South African it reopened the food, culture Executive Block and hospitality.

Game drives guaranteed to thrill of 40 hotel rooms, in a Guests will be king or twin configuration. Pamper yourself welcomed to the boma by a drummer, the in one of the executive rooms, complete with beat of the marimba and served a feast of the full list of standard features: individual meats grilled to perfection. A large variety of air conditioning, DStv, direct-dial telephones, pots, including game meat, traditional pap and electric shaving plugs, coffee and tea-making sheba, and vegetables, all slowly simmering facilities, hairdryer, international multi-plugs, over the open coals, as well as a selection of electronic safes and a minibar. With new mouthwatering desserts, make the Kwa Boma upholstery, linen, improved lighting, art work a feast to remember. and modern decor, these rooms are the Selected as a National Finalist in the AA ultimate in indulgent luxury – in the middle of Accommodation Awards, Kwa Maritane offers wildest Africa! tailor-made conference packages unique The new Kwa Spa opened towards the end to your requirements, and with the lodge’s of 2011 and was nominated for the Spa of the legendary game drives, Kwa Maritane creates Year Award at the 2012 Professional Beauty the ultimate conference and leisure venue.

Awards. At the same awards, the manager, www.legacyhotels.com Marlene van der Spuy, was awarded the Spa Manager of the Year Award.

The new gym, with treadmills, One of the bicycles and free standing luxurious rooms weights, has been a big hit with guests who want to squeeze in some exercise while indulging in the decadences of the hotel’s

www. saconference .co.za

MEETING PLACES • Club Mykonos Your choice of over 261 refurbished units, kalivas, rooms

Little Greece’s big makeover A successful year at Club Mykonos It s amazing what a fresh coat of paint can do.

That s exactly what Club Mykonos in Langebaan did ‒ and more.

T

he past year has certainly been an eventful one. Club Mykonos has been through various refurbishment programmes and, in addition to getting what is close to a full makeover, the resort continues to provide top-class service to guests, including accommodation, conferencing and events.

A large contributing factor towards the team's daily strive for excellence is the resort’s general manager, Jonathan Kilroe-

Smith. Energetic and driven, Jonathan is determined to see the resort’s mission statement, “To become South Africa’s leading corporate and leisure destination”, come to life. Under his guidance, the resort has received some exciting new additions.

In recent months, the Health & Leisure Centre refurbishment programme was completed having added a harmonious day spa facility. The upgraded offerings also include Jacuzzis, steam rooms, plunge baths

Lekker by die see offers a true taste of traditional cuisine

18

MEETINGS SA | NOV/DEC 2012

and wet massage rooms. The spa’s signature treatment, the Chocolate Indulgence, is a relaxing, refreshing experience not to be missed.

The on-site restaurants have also seen a few changes. Bouzouki Restaurant, Boston BBQ and the Oceanis Pool Bar have been rebranded and relaunched. While Bouzouki will still operate under its original name, Oceanis will now be known as On The Edge Bistro, and Boston BBQ has been relaunched as the Charlie Noble Restaurant. Guests will be welcomed back with upgraded facilities, updated menus and warm West Coast hospitality.

From water to land and music to sport, the resort is well-known for its event facilities.

The annual events include the Mykonos Offshore, Bravo Festival, Miss Bikini, MK89 Tour and various live performances and shows.

Club Mykonos provides a variety of conference venues. The largest, Athene Conference Centre, can host up to 500 delegates, and, with various team building activities located on-site, corporate events can be moulded to suit a group’s specific needs. Accommodation and dining establishments are situated on the resort grounds, making logistics far less problematic.

There are a range of accommodation types to choose from, namely My Cascades, Club Mykonos and The Terraces. This little piece of Greece will provide you with everything you may need for a laid-back holiday or an unforgettable corporate encounter. www.clubmykonos.co.za

The ideal venue for corporate conferences, training, banqueting or cocktail functions

V E N U E S H O W C A S E • M a d i k w e S a f a r i Lo d g e • B Y J U L I A M A F C H E R

What could be better than hosting a conference or meeting in a boardroom overlooking the vast expanse of the true African bush?

Madikwe Safari Lodge in the Madikwe Game Reserve is not your run-of-the-mill conference venue.

Private landing strip in the Madikwe Game Reserve

An intimate business dinner at sunset overlooking the beautiful bushveld

20

MEETINGS SA | NOV/DEC 2012

O

n a recent trip to MORE hotel group’s Madikwe Safari Lodge, I was blown away by not only the first-class conferencing and business meeting facilities, but by the sheer luxury, beauty and hospitality too.

“Welcome home,” said food and beverage manager, Sam Moralo, as I stepped out of my car late on a hot Friday afternoon. “For the next two days Madikwe Safari Lodge will be your home away from home.”

Lodge manager, Ulrica Morgan, was just as friendly and led me to the beautiful open lounge and bar area, overlooking the bush, where an ice cold welcome drink was waiting for me.

Just by looking around I could see it was the perfect place for meetings and staff incentive travel too. The spacious communal lounge, complete with the softest sofas around, is an ideal sundowner spot after a day of meetings. Outdoor dinners are held every other night in the authentic bush boma, where the theme regularly changes from true African cuisine like pap ‘n wors to African-Asian fusion.

The three lodges that make up Madikwe Safari Lodge – Lelapa, Kopano and Dithaba – together comprise 20 suites and give guests a choice to stay as a group of colleagues, family and friends, or a more private bush experience as a couple.

Lelapa, which means ‘family’ in the local dialect, is exactly that. It’s got the feeling of home comforts, although slightly more luxurious.

Lelapa Lodge can accommodate 24 guests in the 12 rooms and can host 15 delegates cinema style inside and 18 delegates in the

D Gd gEe V E N U E S H O W C A SMEA•B UM La dA i kGw Ae MS aEf a Lr iO Lo boardroom. Bigger groups can have their The area is well known for providing the best meetings set up outside. game viewing within the reserve, as well as Kopano Lodge, a little further along having the lowest concentration of safari the path from Lelapa, can accommodate vehicles, which makes sightings a lot easier. eight guests in the four rooms. Kopano is Despite my best attempts to spot a leopard, perfect for casual leopard print pants business meetings. and all, it wasn’t The spacious room to be. However Th her re’’s no o sh hor rtag ge of complete with sofas, leopard sightings tea am bu uild ding g activ vitiies arm chairs and have become more att Mad dikw we Safa ari Lo odge ottomans, and most frequent in recent importantly a fresh months and, along cool breeze, is great with buffalo and for brainstorming sessions. For a more lion, are seen fairly regularly in the reserve. formal ambience, the boardroom can be set If a game drive isn’t wild enough for you, up for eight people. then why not get even closer to nature by If a no-distraction stay is what you’re going on a bush walk? Although not for after, then bringing a group of clients or everyone, the bush walk guarantees close-up hosting a small business meeting at Dithaba viewing. Unique to Madikwe Safari Lodge is Lodge is what you need to do. Dithaba the Eco-House educational centre. A visit to Lodge is set further away from the other two lodges and can accommodate eight adults in the four rooms. If it’s a staff incentive trip with families included, then the sleeper couches in each room will come in handy for the kids. The lodge can host 10 delegates boardroom style. Pens, notepads, water, mints, projector and screen are provided in all three lodges, as well as tea, coffee, fruit juice and lunch.

There’s no shortage of team building activities at Madikwe Safari Lodge.

Two game drives a day guarantee excellent big five viewing.

A rustic, yet luxurious setting

the centre is a learning experience for both kids and adults alike. The real animal skulls and bones in the centre include some of the big five as well as the wild dog, an animal common to the area. There's also a variety of live specimens including snakes, spiders and scorpions – not for the faint hearted!

Interactive talks are led by members of the field ranging team, during which you’ll make some eye-opening discoveries.

If the team building activities don’t tickle your fancy, an afternoon in your room is just as splendid – in fact the game will come to you. Just about to doze off I heard a loud rustling noise outside and opened my curtains to find not one or two elephants, but an entire herd no more than a metre away. Never a dull moment in the bush. www.madikwesafarilodge.co.za

Relax after a long day in your exquisite and spacious suite

Enjoy an informal client meeting in the cosy lounge

MEETINGS SA | NOV/DEC 2012

21

MEETING PLACES • ATKV

Home-grown quality The seven ATKV holiday resorts countrywide offer affordable yet excellent accommodation for both business and leisure travellers.

Rooms offer glorious views of the pool at ATKV-Natalia

Horseriding at ATKVDrakensville

A refreshing swim at ATKV-Buffelspoort

An ideal incentive travel destination

S

ituated in some of the most beautiful the category for self-catering resorts with areas of South Africa, surrounded by luxurious accommodation. cultural treasures, the country’s rich More than 61 000 visitors voted for 800 AA historic heritage and other tourist attractions, quality-assured or star-graded institutions the ATKV brand prides itself on superb this year and, according to the programme hospitality. Guests and corporates alike can convener, Vanessa Sands, it’s just going to choose between self-catering get bigger and better accommodation or excellent from here as the ATKV brand prides camping facilities. desire for first place itself on superb The resorts, graded from intensifies. Winning hospitality two to four stars, are this prominent regularly featured in various competition holds holiday journals and magazines, and it’s easy immense marketing value for companies to see why. The brand also takes part in the and organisations. Service delivery, the annual AA Quality Assured Accommodation quality of facilities, atmosphere, recreation Awards Programme and this year was no programmes and catering are some of the exception. Three out of the four finalists in aspects that were taken into consideration. the category for big resorts with a variety The accommodation at all ATKV resorts is of accommodation were ATKV resorts: charged per unit and not per person, so you ATKV-Drakensville, ATKV-Hartenbos and can bring the whole family or even the whole ATKV-Klein-Kariba, with the latter crowned company. All resorts are fully equipped for as winner in this category. Two other ATKV conferences, a selection offer team building resorts, ATKV-Eiland Spa and ATKV-Natalia, activities and ATKV-Drakensville, ATKV-Goudini were regional finalists in the same category.

Spa and ATKV-Klein-Kariba can accommodate ATKV-Goudini Spa was a national finalist in weddings. They're all located within reasonable distance from major cities and airports with easy access from national roads.

You can discover the beautiful Boland when you stay at ATKV-Goudini Spa in the scenic

Breede River valley or organise a business meeting with a difference on the beach at ATKV-Hartenbos and ATKV-Natalia on KwaZulu-Natal’s south coast. If you’re tired of the highveld’s hustle and bustle, then escape to ATKV-Buffelspoort near Brits or ATKV-Klein-Kariba just outside Bela-Bela. Both resorts are just over an hour’s drive from Gauteng. ATKV-Eiland Spa is situated near Tzaneen and is ideal for exploring the Kruger National Park, while ATKVDrakensville is nestled in the foothills of the majestic Drakensberg.

ATKV resorts are geared towards maximum fun with numerous offerings including putt-putt, heated and cold water pools, super tubes, squash and volley-ball facilities, trampolines, hiking routes, horse riding, live concerts and lots more for young and old. You can play golf, go for a hike and explore the area on a mountain bike all in one trip. If the activity you’re after isn’t on offer, the resort will arrange it from an external provider. Team building is facilitated by experienced staff and safety is of the utmost importance. Tick all the boxes?

We think so. www.atkvresorts.co.za

What better way to spend a team building getaway than at ATKV Klein-Kariba

22

MEETINGS SA | NOV/DEC 2012

ENGAGE IN OUR WORKING EXPERIENCE

Breinstorm HKO12/002e

The best-kept conference destinations are secret no more

Safe, secure and superbly appointed. These are the premium atkv resorts nationwide. Take advantage of our experience. Choose from numerous options which oďŹ&#x20AC;er full infrastructure and great personal service.

Make your conference a working success!

BuďŹ&#x20AC;elspoort - 014 572 1000 | Drakensville - 036 438 6287 | Eiland Spa - 015 386 8000 | Goudini Spa - 023 349 8100 Hartenbos - 044 601 7200 | Klein Kariba - 014 736 9800 | Natalia - 031 916 4545 www.atkvresorts.co.za

MEETING PLACES • Johannesburg Expo Centre

No risky business When it comes to big events, venues need to be well equipped and compliant with regulations ‒ especially venues as large and frequently utilised as Johannesburg Expo Centre.

E

lectra Mining is one of the many premier shows that take place at the Johannesburg Expo Centre (JEC).

Attracting up to 40 000 delegates, over 730 local and international exhibitors, and stretched across the 50 000 m² floor space and outside display areas, it remains one of the biggest shows in Southern Africa and the second largest mining show in the world. “With the show’s sterling reputation both locally and internationally, it’s essential that it runs smoothly from buildup to breakdown. This includes everything from contractor work and stand building, to the general show operations and logistics,” says Craig Newman, JEC CEO. Risk management at any event is vital to ensure the safety of all involved and attending. JEC continuously applies a proactive and stern approach to health, safety and risk management at the venue. “We monitor all our venues throughout the year, and making sure our halls and outside areas are in line with all health and safety regulations is a high priority,” highlights Newman.

This process of identification, measurement, control and minimisation of risk is a necessity for any venue within the exhibition, conference and events industries. However, risk management runs much deeper.

Exhibition organisers must ensure the venue is not only equipped with all necessary health and safety equipment and regulations, but also that all measures to prevent any other mishaps are in place.

Electra Mining 2012 took place from 10 to 14 September; build-up, however, was well under way from the end of August. It’s with

24

MEETINGS SA | NOV/DEC 2012

such an intensive environment like this that extraordinary measures need to be taken to ensure everything run smoothly. Specialised Exhibitions opted to utilise the professional services of the on-site security control room, Risk and Liability Services (RLS). “We never had a huge concern about the security of the venue, but it’s our responsibility to ensure all our clients and their interests are protected, as well as to protect the Electra Mining brand itself. By using the services of

“We make sure our halls and outside areas are in line with all health and safety regulations.”

Craig Newman, CEO, JEC

RLS, we were able to have a bird’s eye view of the entire show 24 hours a day and were assured of the safety of all attending this highly acclaimed show,” says Emmanuel Patty, operations manager at Specialised Exhibitions.

RLS provides an essential CCTV and security function to protect premises, goods, services

and – most importantly – members of the public. “Although I can confidently say Specialised Exhibitions has no concerns in terms of crime at JEC, having the services of RLS available to our high-profile exhibitions, such as Electra Mining, has provided much added value to the venue itself. We can now guarantee that should anything ever occur, RLS’s available technology can solve the problem immediately and with great ease,” says Patty.

RLS’s advanced technology, which includes a huge Barco screen, sets the context for the control room and the various monitoring consoles provide the infrastructure for a strong security presence. “The system is capable of recording data from an entire show and maintaining this information for 30 days, with the storage providing the ability to return to any camera over the whole period of the show. In addition, there’s a backbone of optical fibre throughout the site and transmission into and out of JEC has also been addressed with broadband capabilities,” says James Hagedorn, CEO of RLS. “RLS is not only able to provide protection, but also added value and cost saving to the entire risk management process. It’s a fantastic offering available at the venue and resonates with one of our core responsibilities as a world-class venue: to deliver a safe, pleasurable and memorable experience for all,” advocates Newman.

“Probably the most important aspect to remember when discussing risk management within the exhibition, conference and events industries is that it should always be considered a group effort.

It should be considered a common goal, rather than a competitive advantage – after all, it’s a necessity not an accessory.” www.expocentre.co.za

M E E T I N G P L A C E S • Pe e r m o n t

Naughty but nice Top entertainment destination Emperors Palace introduces a year-end function and Christmas party season with an exciting twist: London s West End smash hit show, Hurly Burly.

Burlesque comes to Emperors Palace

H

old on to your feather boas because Emperors Palace is about to get all shook up with its colourful burlesque nights. Miss Polly Rae and her Hurly Burly girls are bringing their hippy hippy shimmer and shake, thigh-flashing, fabulous curves and sequined tasselled moments to local shores for the first time.

The perfect year-end bang, Emperors Palace is offering a wonderful Supper Theatre Thursday Package, including a sumptuous three-course meal and full cash bar facilities, of the Hurly Burly Show for only R550 per person.

Cheeky in more ways than one, the Hurly Burly Show is a spectacular song and dance production celebrating all things sensuous, fabulous and funny. The all-singing, all-dancing cast brings fashion, music and pop culture together in a way that’s never been seen before.

The show features covers and mash-ups of pop hits from Kylie, Britney Spears, Prince, Beyoncé, Madonna, Lady Gaga and many more.

The Hurly Burly Show opened at the Theatre of Marcellus at Emperors Palace on 27 October for a six-week season. Ticket prices start from R365 per person. The age restriction is PG, except the midnight show, which has an age restriction of 18.

Department +27 (0)11 928 1297/1044

Tickets: +27 (0)11 928 1297/1213, www.emperorspalace.com, or book with Computicket +27 (0)83 915 8000, www.computicket.com.

Package information and bookings: Emperors Palace Entertainment

MEETINGS SA | NOV/DEC 2012

25

EVENT MANAGEMENT • Oasys Innovations for the future will continue to focus on upskilling our worker talent. Our partnership with GL events has brought us in touch with multi nationals, in addition to our local client base. This requires a revamp of our mix of business attributes, which will be enhanced through an international management exchange programme on major projects such as the next Soccer World Cup in Brazil,” explains Strydom.

He believes that the company’s focus includes optimising relations with organisers and venues, as the incidence of exhibitions and events grows faster than available venues to accommodate the shows. “That means tighter deadlines for suppliers of infrastructure and smaller time frames for installing large custom stands. We’ve put all necessary plans in place to accommodate the tightest of deadlines, by investing in flexible systems and having reduced human error. Our mission of best practice includes engaging only the best person for the task at hand. In the process we help the client to maximise profitability – a true partnership at work.”

The company has added a new dimension to its international presence, particularly for business in Africa. “From an operational viewpoint we’ve identified high-potential countries on the back of our corporate customers who engage in marketing activities o outside South Africa.

Cross-bor Cross-border opportunities are likely to increa increasingly become part of our incom stream, similar to the income inst installation of semi-permanent v venue structures that allow existing and He adds: “Over greenfield venues and above our to create additional “We've revitalised our holistic customer value to venue business by bringing on approach, we’ve seekers,” says board the right people stepped up our Strydom to satisfy customer interaction with He concludes: customers at their “Going forward, requirements.” Mark executive level as repeat contracts Strydom, COO, Oasys Innovations they are, at times, for major events not informed this year such as about the value of exhibitions and events. In Electra Mining Africa, SARCDA, Decorex, the process we are contributing towards an Homemakers Fair, the China Sourcing Fair and industry wide awareness initiative.” the Nedbank Golf Challenge, to mention a Oasys has moved into top gear to sustain few, have boosted our confidence that our its position as market leader and a model of offering lives up to market expectations. outsourcing of selected activities. Stringent New business, such as the multimillion rand management control has led to strategic contract we acquired from Telkom via Total alliances introducing new efficiencies in Facilities Management Company for all the business processes.

8.ta outlets echo the sentiment that we have “Although we’ll be making strategic all our bells and whistles in the right place.” investments in the ‘custom’ environment to www.oasys.co.za complement our sales initiatives, our priority

Displaying a new dimension

Oasys Innovations has repositioned d iitself tself dor o from a local to an international vendor off ents. infrastructure for exhibitions and events.

O

ur industry is unfortunately subjected to short-term characteristics with sporadic high-performance by vendors moving between a myriad of different sized projects. Although the Oasys business model is squarely aimed at satisfying organisers and end users, we’ve introduced strategic health checks at regular intervals, ensuring we’re well positioned to enhance our performance beyond tomorrow’s project. This year we revitalised our business by bringing on board the right people to satisfy customer requirements. These are employees in sales, marketing, design and project management who’re intelligent and who understand the customer, the customer’s business purpose and processes, corporate culture, financials, marketing initiatives, people and, above all, their differentiation strategies to align ourselves more closely to their corporate identities,” says chief operating officer, Mark Strydom.

26

MEETINGS SA | NOV/DEC 2012

EVENT MANAGEMENT â&#x20AC;˘ Intercape

Where it all began How Intercape became the top-notch service provider it is today.

J

ohan Ferreira Sr was born in 1934. After 18 years as a school teacher in Namibia, he decided in 1971 to start a passenger bus company with one bus only, and called the business Central Bus Service. After five years, the company expanded to five buses and changed its name to Windhoek Bus Services.

In 1979 Ferreira Sr launched a second passenger bus company in Cape Town, calling it Intercape. At first, the company operated a shuttle service between the Cape Town airport and the CBD only.

In 1986, Intercape applied for and obtained intercity permits for transporting passengers between Cape Town and Port Elizabeth. In the same year, Johann Ferreira Jr joined his father.

In 2008, Ferreira Jr bought 100% of the company and took over management.

Intercape boasts the largest infrastructure to support its operations in the Southern African industry, including offices and depots in the following cities and countries: Windhoek, Namibia; Maputo and Beira, Mozambique; Gaborone, Botswana; Lusaka and Kitwe, Zambia; Lilongwe and Blantyre, Malawi; Harare and Bulawayo, Zimbabwe; Cape Town, Upington, Mosselbay, George, Port Elizabeth, Queenstown, East London, King Williams Town, Durban, Pietermaritzburg, Nelspruit, Bloemfontein, Pretoria and Johannesburg, South Africa. In October 2010, Intercape expanded its routes through Africa, running daily departures from all the major countries: Zambia, Zimbabwe and Malawi.

28

MEETINGS SA | NOV/DEC 2012

THEN

Intercape's present product portfolio includes Mainliner and Sleepliner Intercity Passenger Services; Private Coach Hire Services; and a Counter-to-Counter Parcel Service. It currently operates more than 100 double and single deck coaches. At

Intercape, the safety of passengers is of utmost importance. The company makes every endeavour to ensure that buses exceed the industry standard for roadworthiness. Intercape has just intr introduced the Double Decker G7 Sleepliner as well w as the Single Decker I6 Irizar coaches.

Its training centre in Cape Town, trains and eva evaluates staff to ensure the highest standard of customer service. The Training Academy also offers accredited courses to external companies. It utilises the latest technology to enhance and assist with safety measures.

Intercape has focused on the Private Coach Hire division over the last NOW couple of years with results better than expected. The Charter division caters for every kind of tour. With depots across Southern Africa and the ability to transport people across borders, Intercape can move any group, anywhere, any time.

Intercape recently transported Paul Roos Gymnasium to Grey College in Bloemfontein with 27 coaches, and what a sight to see. The company is also moving strongly into the sport circles, and transports big sporting franchises like the Cheetahs, Griquas, SWD Eagles and the Boland Kaveliers.

It is also the proud transport provider for the Varsity Cup Rugby Series, and has recently signed a deal with Varsity Sports which kicks off in 2013, to be its nationwide transport service provider. www.intercape.co.za

EVENT MANAGEMENT • Vastratech

Down with dull meetings

The term effective meetings can be an oxymoron in many organisations; however, realising this goal has been a daily mission for VastraTech.

T

he traditional face-to-face meeting is increasingly under the microscope in terms of process, cost and returns.

VastraTech has taken the lead in building a better way of collaborating. At VastraTech, ‘collaboration’ is an all-encompassing term suggesting an anywhere, anytime scenario where users can easily and seamlessly include multiple elements to create a powerful representative meeting.

The official launch of Freestorm Visual Collaboration Solutions by Smart Technologies has driven the process even further and made it easier for VastraTech (the Southern African distributor) to guide clients on how to establish and manage their meeting spaces. Visual collaboration is when a group of people work together using digital content and resources, share their ideas, skills and experiences, and inspire one another to achieve common goals.

VastraTech starts at the very beginning of the process by providing advice on how to implement and effectively use visual collaboration solutions to conduct meetings in an effective, engaging manner.

The company encourages collaboration with both local and remote participants by sharing data, reference materials, making notes, listing action items and distributing

this information to every participant before they’ve even left the meeting.

VastraTech has been central to revolutionising the Southern African meeting space over the past few years and, this year in particular, has seen phenomenal growth in the interactive meeting space.

Having worked with two of the four major South African banks to standardise on these solutions and trained over four thousand of their staff this year alone, the company believes that this is only the start of the 21st century meeting space and mentions several other major companies adopting these solutions on a large scale, including

“The face of the meeting space is changing and we look forward to guiding users.” Gary Bekker, MD consulting firms, construction and auditing companies. It’s not surprising then that large government institutions have also seen the

benefit of implementing these solutions and uptake has been significantly quicker than initially anticipated.

Providing a holistic solution is key to the VastraTech offering and this has been evident in its efforts in 2012. Not only has it been hard at work to grow the implementation of these solutions, but it has also invested in further developing its training and professional development offering, growing its customer service team and, most importantly, working closely with its channel of accredited resellers toward ensuring compliance with the stringent Smart Reseller Accreditation Programme. No doubt these have been contributing factors to the company’s successes in 2012, as the meeting space user is ultimately the beneficiary of its efforts.

“The 2012 ‘effective meeting space’ has rendered obsolete the need to be in one room, meaning that it’s now equally simple to brainstorm, refer to project notes, work in a data file, make annotations or send e-mail notes and reminders, whether you’re present in the meeting space, at your desk, in an airport lounge or a coffee shop abroad,” says Gary Bekker, MD of VastraTech. “The face of the meeting space is changing indefinitely and we look forward to guiding users along the way.”

www.vastratech.com

MEETINGS SA | NO/DEC 2012

29

EVENT MANAGEMENT • Wedding Focus •

BY JULIA MAFCHER The Forum Turbine Hall is a fabulous space for weddings

Wedding bells The bride and groom aren t the only ones who strive for the perfect wedding day. Behind the scenes, meetings professionals and service providers hope for the same. So, how do they influence the wedding?

30

MEETINGS SA | NOV/DEC 2012

EVENT MANAGEMENT • Wedding Focus The Forum Turbine Hall suits any style of wedding

and whistles T

The Forum Company's catering is another one of their special offerings

he standard of the Wedding Expo this year was the highest yet. It’s an undisputed trendsetter and the response we’ve had from visitors and exhibitors alike has been overwhelming,” says Amanda Cunningham, MD of the Wedding Expo. Shows like these help meetings professionals gain exposure and provide invaluable information to venues and suppliers.

The South African wedding industry has grown enormously over the past decade. The now multibillion rand industry is made up predominantly of entrepreneurs and is currently valued at approximately R40 billion per annum. The Wedding Expo has grown from 77 exhibitors in 2002 to 700 annually, and the number of visitors from 3 000 to 30 000.

“We have a team of people dedicated to the success of the bridal industry as a whole. It’s our number one priority to ensure the exhibitors receive great value-add exposure throughout the year via various marketing platforms. We interact and engage with the exhibitors and take pride in what they’re doing and achieving. The Wedding Expo is dedicated to making this industry amazing,” adds Cunningham.

Anton Rautenbach and Guy Granger formed wedding and design company the Event & Wedding Emporium six years ago, as “there were no other companies in South Africa who provided our offerings at the time,” says Rautenbach. “We were the first company in the country to design weddings from start to finish.

From the wedding gown and the stationery to the flowers and decor, we can do just about everything. We have our own decor elements too, but only use them for our functions so we don’t hire any of our stock out. This puts us in the position where our clients come to us for a bespoke service and they know the experience will be a unique one,” he explains.

Although coordination is one of the functions the Event and Wedding Emporium provides clients, they don’t advertise

MEETINGS SA | NOV/DEC 2012

31

EVENT MANAGEMENT • Wedding Focus

Exquisite décor provided by The Forum Company

More delicious treats

The Wedding Emporium supply beautiful décor

themselves as wedding coordinators.

“We advertise ourselves as a bespoke wedding and event design company,” Rautenbach says.

Rautenbach creates wedding stationery, designs the flower arrangements as well as decor, and then puts a creative table presentation together – an identical replica of what iitt Ruby Rain takes your wedding to the next level

Meetings professionals need to be on the ball when it comes to the latest trends will look like on the day – for the couplee to approve. Once approved, he designs the wedding cake according to the presentation.

The Forum Company focuses on catering and the experience around it, making it the perfect fit for any style of wedding. They’ve perfected the flawless occasion: every detail is considered when designing standout experiences. The Forum Company and its team take the hassle out of organising a wedding for the bridal party.

“I’ve noticed a trend for smaller, more fu ul intimate ceremonies, which are wonderful if you really want to focus on making every detail special. Tailor-made menus are one of our specialities, enhancing D, food through colour and taste,” says MD, Glynis Hyslop.

She explains that dessert tables are alll g the rage at the moment and make a big visual statement. You can offer guests a variety of small, fun and easy to

32

MEETINGS SA | NOV/DEC 2012

Small additions leave a lasting impression

eat desserts that tie in with the wedding theme.

“The venue also adds to the magic of the wedding day. With the current trend in urban weddings, the five-star Forum Turbine Hall is the space of the season. It’s the perfect venue for couples who want to celebrate in the sleek, minimalist space in chic Jozi style,” Hyslop adds.

According to Stefan Norval, owner of Afresh Event and Design, repurposing everyday items has become popular. “Using unexpected items as props is seen more frequently and the use of interesting and unusual glassware creates a setting that’s both creative and unique,” he explains.

It’s easy to see the important role meetings professionals play in the wedding process. From decor and catering to flower arranging and invites, they form every part of the wedding build-up. The bottom line: meetings professionals need to be on the ball when it comes to the latest trends, costs and know what their competition is doing.

While they may be behind the scenes, their role cannot be underestimated.

Useful contacts The Wedding Expo www.wedding-expo.co.za Wedding Emporium www.weddingemporium.co.za The Forum www.theforum.co.za A Fresh Event www.afreshevent.co.za

IN THE KNOW â&#x20AC;˘ EXSA

Meet 'n greet Matchmaking in the MICE industry? Yes it s true.

In fact it's become popular at exhibitions and conferences around the world.

B

usiness matchmaking allows participants to connect with key individuals in various areas within an environment conducive to networking and exploring future business opportunities.

Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s great potential for future growth via matchmaking, by bringing together people of like minds and similar business goals. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Where better to do this than at an exhibition â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the best form of face-to-face marketing there is,â&#x20AC;? says Sue Gannon, general manager of EXSA. Sue Gannon, GM, EXSA EXSA spoke with Deidre (right), with Hart from LTE South Africa Olympic champion, Chad about matchmaking at Le Clos her exhibitions and her responses were very favourable, indicating that matchmaking has the potential to be successful if it is managed correctly. Their show, Source Africa â&#x20AC;&#x201C; The African Textile, Apparel and Footwear Trade Event, is held annually at the CTICC. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Our matchmaking event is organised by a clothing and textile industry expert, Joop de Voest,â&#x20AC;? says Hart.

USAID Southern Africa Trade Hub, which has for the past five years successfully hosted

B2B events in the apparel and textile value chain, has integrated its programme into Source Africa. The matchmaking programme, for identified market sectors, will link regional clothing, textile and footwear producers with international and regional retailers, brands and wholesalers, and will take place at exhibitors' stands. These matched meetings are based on a detailed pre-selection questionnaire and will take into account size of companies (capacity/ ability to meet minimum order quantities), export experience (for international buyers), the calibre of clients/buyers a company deals with, buyer requirements (including social responsibility, WRAP, ISO) and more. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This is an important platform for buyers, manufacturers and suppliers to negotiate business relationships. Last year, it resulted in more than 450 meetings, US$2 million (R17.53 million) in immediate sales and US$10 million in carry-over sales,â&#x20AC;? Hart adds.

Matchmaking also takes place at Electra Mining, Interbuild, Meetings Africa, and SETE,

where EXSA recently exhibited. Charmaine Brough, from Homemakers, also responded to the survey regarding matchmaking. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Homemakers is very much a consumer show and doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t offer matchmaking. However, we believe itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a valuable asset, which can maximise the opportunities for exhibitors, both in consumer and trade.â&#x20AC;?

Tracy Watcham, from Outsmart Marketing, gave several reasons why they believe business matchmaking should be included in exhibitions and conferences: â&#x20AC;˘ incentive to register early â&#x20AC;˘ guarantee that participants will reach their target market â&#x20AC;˘ event measurability â&#x20AC;˘ strategic insight into events â&#x20AC;˘ lead tracking â&#x20AC;˘ added value to participants â&#x20AC;˘ international participant value â&#x20AC;˘ in-depth profiles of participants â&#x20AC;˘ personal service.

Gannon explains: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s definitely a positive side to encouraging communication between exhibitors and delegates; the value of face-to-face marketing once again proven. Matchmaking is just taking that one step further to result in constructive networking opportunities and strategic relationship building within the time frame of an exhibition. It really gives you the opportunity to seek out prospective business deals, especially at exhibitions where hosted buyers are included in the set-up for certain shows such as Meetings Africa and Indaba.

The National Conventions Bureau and South African Tourism are committed to expanding business into South Africa and matchmaking opportunities gives everyone a chance to meet potential clients.â&#x20AC;? www.exsa.co.za

MEETINGS SA | NOV/DEC 2012

33

! " # $ # %&''( )&* +,+, # - .

! "

! "

IN THE KNOW • Compex Column •

NIGEL WALKER

INTERNATIONAL INVESTMENT

Growing SA’s exhibition sector

Reviewing the economic status of the country s exhibition industry.

T

he value of the exhibition industry hard to contest with the inflow of capital is determined in the same manner investment utilised to market, promote and as the value of anything: by what a position competing exhibitions. buyer is prepared to invest. It doesn’t matter The investors are here to do just that – what the seller thinks a company is worth, if invest. And an investment should not only be there are no buyers or investors, then the measured in monetary terms. Undoubtedly company or product is valueless there’s the inflow within the market. It’s therefore of new insights gratifying to review the in management, Nothing indicates economic status of the South marketing, operational that international African exhibition industry using processes and interest in the this yardstick as methodologies. The South African a benchmark. reinvigorated industry exhibition industry Over the past 18 months, is investing in new will abate the South African exhibition products (i.e. shows), industry has seen a series as well as expanding of new and joint ventures, purchases and and growing existing shows. The smaller investments, notably from the Middle East ‘independent’ organiser may be hard pushed and Europe. The latest deal is rumoured to to compete under such circumstances. Such be valued at tens of millions of rand. Nothing investments could therefore tip the local at the moment indicates that international competitive balance. interest in the South African exhibition Internationally based branded exhibitions industry will abate. bring with them large international exhibitors For venues and suppliers the impact is who, linked to their local distributors, bring probably more positive. More shows mean credibility and critical mass to an exhibition. A more rentals for venues; more shows for few years ago, who would have thought that suppliers mean more sales. However, for a mining exhibition could be so successfully organisers such investment may be a mixed hosted in Cape Town. Most, if not all local, blessing. There are some South African organisers would never dream of holding organising companies that are finding it such an exhibition outside the main mining-

34

MEETINGS SA | NOV/DEC JUL/AUG 2012 2012

focused area of Gauteng or the northern provinces.The South African industry, with international support and stimulation, is actively looking north towards the African continent. More than one organiser is now regularly operating not only in our neighbouring countries, but further afield in both East and West Africa.

With such interest in the South African exhibition industry, it’s not surprising to note that there are two international conferences focused on the exhibition industry being hosted in South Africa in 2013. These conferences not only expose local industry to international peers and leaders, but also showcase the industry to potential investors.

This is a positive feedback loop and illustrates how we’re positioned within the international exhibition sector.

I therefore pose the question: Have we seen the same interest in the South African conference industry? If not, I wonder why?

Is the industry not structured in a way that it encourages such investment and to demonstrate value to a potential investor? Are the potential returns for such an investment insufficient compared to opportunities in other countries?. www.exsa.co.za

R E W A R D & D E V E LO P • U S B S p e a k e r s C o r n e r •

8

TIPS

DR GRAEME CODRINGTON

for future success

In these ever changing times it's important to futureproof your business.

A

s another year draws to a close and we turn our eyes to 2013, it’s clear that we’re still living and working in an era of extreme uncertainty. A global recession combined with technology, politics, economics, corporate organisation and societal values, means we're living at a moment in history when a large number of different trends are working together to generate more change than we’ve ever experienced.

1 Ask new questions to Companies often don’t realise they're stuck in a rut. Broaden your horizons and ask new questions to new groups of people inside and outside your organisation. You might discover that there are people other than your current customers who are interested in what you do.

new people

2 Data, data, data – the radical power of knowing everything Capture everything you can and use it – but with a twist. Look for new trends and the likely impact of any disruptive change by combining different data sets.

This is sometimes called ‘big data’. This is a real source of competitive advantage and insight. You'll need to employ 'data scientists' or 'data detectives’ to do this.

3 Enjoy the discomfort (and bring ‘uncomfortable’ people into your life) Ensure your people are comfortable with constant change. Employ people who can take you outside your comfort zone and engage with new technology and business practices to help your business transition to where you need to get to.

Don’t just look for people who

We cannot continue with business as usual, and we can’t wait for things to ‘go back to normal’.

An era such as this brings both threats and opportunities. In order to identify these, you need to be able to see what’s changing and anticipate how this will affect your industry. Here are eight ways in which you can gain insights into the future of your industry and create tomorrow’s competitive advantage today.

6 Watch new competition

blogs and websites out there This is quite difficult to do, to keep you up to date with because you spend a lot of your what’s coming. Try TED videos, time watching your own industry.

The Economist, Wired, Popular Change the physical But recent history shows that in Mechanics, or The Futurist space Our physical environment times of uncertainty and change, magazines. Get your team to abits and these in there shapes our habits there’ss the potential ffor your report back on what they’ve ur thinking. turn shape our industry to be ambushed seen and how it’s helped them to by unexpe Move things and people unexpected think differently. competit around, and allow competitors.

Who could co Use stories to make your people to work come into sense of it all Some of what your ma in different places market and ent amb you learn will have a huge impact and at different ambush you? times Lear on your business, some less so. times. Sometimes Learn from Nothing Noth No hiin ng ope o op opens pens them – not just The same data can help you change reallyy is as reach different conclusions. good as a holiday. the competition the mind more Use your business knowledge to Nothing opens you know, but than travelling create scenarios or narratives, the mind more innovators and to different parts not just facts. Build scenarios than travelling to start-ups in of the world and play with new ideas in your different parts of other sectors. mind. Our ability to see the the world.

Your future future is not a matter of luck or competitors may well be in a Learn to share fortune telling. It’s a skill that can completely different industry.

83% of Generation ation Y (teenagers be developed and is something hings) will trust Read wat Read, watch, tch listen and 20-somethings) everyone in your team needs to ore if it’s itt’s Make it a habitt tto expose a company more be involved in. Everyone at every nmenttally your mind to content co that socially/environmentally level of your organisation needs d 79% want doesn’t directly direect relate to responsible and to be looking for the threats and company your in nd industry or even to work for a company opportunities that lie ahead in ut bus sine There business. that cares about a changing world. Only then can ar re tthousands of are how it impactss and you really future-proof gre g great publications, contributes to your business. esociety. Futureproofing your About A the author suring business by ensuring you contributee to Dr G D Graeme Codrington is a futurist, author and speaker d society socieety community and on the t future of work. He can be contacted at graeme@ on is a simple, butt highlyy ttomorrowtoday.co.za omo tegy. effective strategy.

are similar to your existing team – bring in a few mavericks and stretch your boundaries a bit.

4

8

5

7

The USB is taking the world of professional speaker bureaus and speaker agents by storm with its innovative approach to the business of promoting speaking professionals.

It adopts a proactive partnership with elite professional business speakers and MCs. Its objective is to match, and strive to exceed, clients’ expectations of speakers across the entire range of business-to-business events. www.uniquespeakerbureau.com

MEETINGS SA | NOV/DEC 2012

35

R E W A R D & D E V E L O P • Te a m b u i l d i n g The Flight Centre made a huge effort at Dream Team Catalyst's Hercules Trophy Event

Top class team building Two team building companies tell us about the year that was and what we can look forward to

A

t Dream Team Catalyst, we’re very culminating in thousands of sports kits being aware that 2012 wasn’t the best year donated to underprivileged schools. Next on record for business. We are very year’s event is set to be twice as big. grateful, however, that we managed to grow “Looking at 2013 we know that we, like our the business in line with our clients, will face challenges expectations and we once but are confident that we We can't wait to again beat budget,” says have the right product see what 2013 Gerry Skerritt, MD of Dream mix, expertise and skills Team Catalyst. to remain relevant and has in store for “The key driver in business make it a successful year the team building at the moment is value. once again. ‘Bring it on’,” industry We don’t strive to be the concludes Skerritt. cheapest, but we do make “2012 has been Elephants it very difficult to be beaten on ‘value for in Main Street’s biggest year to date,” says money experiences’,” explains Skerritt.

CEO Steve Blades.

Dream Team Catalyst introduced 12 new The company has run teambuilding products this year. The most exciting and events across Canada, from Vancouver impactful of these is Orchestrate. This world and Calgary to Montreal and Toronto, as first allows participants to feel the power of well as unusual places such as a Sudbury. a symphony orchestra by performing in one.

Elephants in Main Street continues to It’s an inspiring and immensely rewarding do work in the United Kingdom and programme that enables delegates to learn Namibia. “Not bad for a bunch of black and a symphony together and then perform the white boys from the bottom of Africa,” pieces as an orchestra all in 90 minutes. laughs Blade.

They also launched Hercules Trophy – the world’s biggest networked team building event. On 18 July, Nelson Mandela Day, 600 people from 72 top South African companies Staff get gathered at SuperSport Park in Centurion involved at Elephants In for the inaugural event. The day featured Main Street's Amazing 12 amazing activities where companies Race event competed against one another building camaraderie, networking and company loyalty. The South African Olympic team joined the opening ceremony and completed their ‘67 Minutes’ with their clients,

36

MEETINGS SA | NOV/DEC JUL/AUG 2012 2012

The company's main reason for expansion comes from its consistent high level of service delivery, coupled with its internal training and development programme. “Our ‘Have you Herd’ campaign last year had just over a thousand of our past clients come and find out what we’d been up to and our reorganisation into defined market service sectors enables clients in the pharmaceutical, engineering, IT & telecommunications, financial services, media and FMCG sectors to get a dedicated, customised service,” Blade adds.

The company’s biggest products in the last year have been, ‘Blog It, Baby!’, Boot camp, Project Wendy, Pressure Cooker, DJ Nights and the launch of its executive coaching programme, UNLOCK. UNLOCK connects the dots between events and makes sure clients get real value in the workplace between team building and conferences. “We’ve also given birth to a new elephant, Magic Mammoth, our dedicated in-house video production unit.

“Next year, the company will continue to service its clients in the Middle East, Europe, Australia and North and South America.

However, our South African clients will benefit from being the first to enjoy Paris, Dakar, Fashion Runway, Taxi Ride and, wait for it… Pimp my Ride,” Blade concludes.

So, all in all, a positive outcome? We think so and we can’t wait to see what 2013 has in store for the industry. www.dreamteam.co.za www.elephants.co.za

Dream Team Catalyst introduced team building activity, Orchestrate

Elephants In Main Street's Santiago Boot Camp

WHO'S WHO

Changes at Tourvest Destination Management Three landmark Cape hotels, two key appointments Petousis Group Hotels, which comprises The Vineyard Hotel & Spa, the Townhouse Hotel & Conference Centre and Oude Werf, is celebrating a successful 2012. Karl Parkinson has taken the helm as group sales manager, and will oversee the group’s sales team and strategy.

German specialist agent Ruth Rick-Walther, MD of tourism company Terra Allegra, has been appointed as the group’s key European agent.

Polana Serena Hotel welcomes new GM Having paved the way for the hotel’s future, overseeing massive renovations in 2010 and seeing the hotel through to its 90th anniversary this year, executive director, Karim Merali now hands over his sceptre to the newly appointed general manager, Miguel Afonso dos Santos.

New face at Hilton Durban

Moving on to Arabella Hotel & Spa

Nathalie van Leeuwen joins Hilton

Lorraine Isaacs, the Protea Hospitality Group’s 2011 Sales Executive of the Year, has been appointed as the new sales manager for the Arabella Hotel & Spa. Isaacs now manages a team of four sales executives and coordinators.

Durban’s conference and events team as groups, conference and events manager, and is responsible for the overall event management operation of the hotel.

Tourvest Destination Management (TDM), a division of Tourvest Holdings Pty Ltd, has made strategic changes to its management team. Sabine Blehle, current sales and marketing director of Welcome Tourism Services (WTS) will be moving to TDM Business and Sports Events Division (B.A.S.E) as chief operating officer.

Peter Dros, former sales and marketing director at Sanctuary Retreats – Abercrombie and Kent’s lodge and camp portfolio – steps into Blehle’s shoes as WTS’ new sales and marketing director.

Three Cities Exceptional Hotels new MD John Creighton has been appointed MD of Three Cities Exceptional Hotels.

The group manages and markets over 32 quality tourism and leisure properties, and has a strong network of sales and marketing specialists working out of Johannesburg, Durban, Cape Town, London and Germany.

Its portfolio includes four divisions: City Hotels, Resorts, Exceptional Safaris and Exceptional Collection.

MEETINGS SA | NOV/DEC 2012

37

P R O D U C T

N E W S

Techn no sp peak wiith Sigh ht ‘n n Sound d The pride of T Saxon’s Sommelier

he Saxon Boutique Hotel in Sandhurst, Johannesburg, has in the past been voted Conde Nast’s Reader’s Choice Awards 2011 Top 20 Overseas Business Hotels, and is again making headlines. For the third consecutive year, the hotel has seen its in-house sommeliers take to the international stage with great success. This year, 27-year-old Jeff Lopes represented South Africa on local soil at the Chaines des Rotisseurs Jeunes Sommeliers Competition and came in at an impressive fourth place.

‘Experience Meetings’ at Radisson Blu hotels

Taking meetings and events into the new age

R

adisson Blu across Europe, the Middle East and Africa (EMEA) has just launched ‘Experience Meetings’, a new concept for meetings and events.

Three components make up ‘Experience Meetings’: • Brain Food An innovative and responsible food and beverage solution developed by skilled chefs and nutritionists.

• Brain Box A breakout room designed to elevate efficiency and stimulate creativity.

• Connectivity All Radisson Blu properties offer free and fast Wi-Fi to meeting delegates.

‘Experience Meetings’ begins with an easy planning and booking process. Radisson Blu has come up with a variety of tools and services, including a sophisticated search engine (www.meetings.carlsonrezidor. com). The company will be rolling out enhanced hotel web pages for meetings, along with 3D floor plans.

38

MEETINGS SA | NOV/DEC JUL/AUG 2012 2012

A

s technology moves forward, we sometimes struggle to keep up with the buzz words and complicated names for cables and connections. The latest craze? High Definition: HDTVs, HD projectors, HD players, HDMI – what does this all mean?

Sight ‘n Sound’s technical director, Marc Taylor, explains. All flat screen TVs, such as LCD, LED and plasma, use vertical and horizontal pixels to make up the image. “Simply put, the more pixels the better the image,” says Taylor.

The definition of the picture is determined by the number of lines of pixels that make up the image. So, standard definition images (PAL images) comprise 576 horizontal pixel lines, while HD images have up to 720 lines of pixels and full HD images have 1080 lines of pixels.

Retail outlets often refer to 720p as ‘HD Ready’ and 1080p as ‘Full HD.’ Both give a better picture than standard definition TV (SDTV).

Although there are many derivatives of HD, most people only have the option of viewing HD formats from certain channels on DStv or Blu-ray DVD players.

High definition multimedia interface (HDMI) is the most commonly used cable to connect your HD compliant devices. This cable allows you to connect a Blu-ray player or the HD PVR decoder to your TV for enjoyable HD viewing.

Cargo Hold restaurant introduces Chef ’s Table

A

new concept in dining is a custom designed, interactive culinary experience featuring the restaurant’s finest cuisine and wines: The Chef’s Table. Cargo Hold restaurant, located at uShaka Marine World in Durban, has joined the exclusive range of restaurants that offers diners this experience.

The restaurant has introduced the Chef’s Table to diners who want to celebrate a special occasion, such as a bi birthday or anniversary, or even a corporate celebration.

“The dishes dish h are exclusive and not necessarily from the regular menu,” says executive a chef Wa Warrem Frantz. “We’ll even go one step further with special booking times, customised printed menu cards, exclusive fine dining pre-plated culinary delights, dedicated waiters as well as a wine steward on hand to assist with wine pairing for up to 10 guests,” Frantz adds.

C O M I N G U P & LO O K I N G B A C K C O M I N G

U P

Culinary couture Awards will take place the day before the conference at the same venue.

Speakers at this inspiring, informative and interactive event include top international chef Massimo Bottura, Bruce Palling (Wall Street Journal critic, World’s 50 Best Restaurants judge, blogger and Eat Out 2012 judge) and British food designer Andrew Stellitano.

The conference aims to provide a platform for knowledge sharing in the South African food community and will be of value to chefs, restaurateurs, journalists, critics and anyone who’s passionate about food.

Local speakers include the 2011 Eat Out Chef of the Year, Luke Dale-Roberts, as well as the executive chef at Le Quartier Francais Hotel in Franschhoek, Margot Janse, and prominent members of the local food and restaurant community.

They’ll join a panel discussion led by Eat Out editor and Eat Out DStv Food Network Restaurant Awards judge, Abigail Donnelly.

Eat Out DStv Food Network Conference

F

ancy yourself a foodie? Well, then you’re in for a real treat at the first ever, much anticipated Eat Out DStv Food Network Conference, which is to be held on 24 November at The Westin Cape Town. The Eat Out DStv Food Network Restaurant

LOOKING BACK

Expo highlights travel awards and was held in conjunction with the Institute of Travel & Meetings Southern Africa (ITMSA) and TNS. The ITMSA engaged their database of corporate travel buyers to judge the awards and the results were then collated and passed on to TNS, the world leaders in market research.

The awards formed part of the inaugural BTAfrica Expo Conference and Awards, which took place from 6 to 7 September and featured 85 business travel exhibitors and a full-day conference at the Sandton Convention Centre, moderated by renowned television news anchor Jeremy Maggs and Business Traveller Africa magazine editor, Dylan Rogers. The pair presided over a series of engaging panel discussions, covering politics, marketing, travel and working in Africa, along with a look at some of the ‘giants’ in Africa that have made it big in the business travel space.

Planning for the 2013 BTAfrica Expo Conference and Awards is already under way and it is due to take place at the Sandton Convention Centre on 20 and 21 August 2013.

BTAfrica Expo Conference and Awards

S

outh African hotel group, Tsogo Sun Hotels, and SAA were among the big winners at the inaugural BTAfrica Business Travel Awards, which was held at the Sandton Convention Centre in Johannesburg on 7 September.

Tsogo Sun Hotels walked away with the award for Best African Hotel Brand with locations in South Africa, holding off the competition, City Lodge and Protea Hotels. SAA, meanwhile, claimed the Best Pan-African (long haul) Airline award, edging out Nigeria’s Arik Air and Kenya Airways.

The BTAfrica Business Travel Awards is Africa’s first ever business

MEETINGS SA | NOV/DEC 2012

39

EVENTS DIARY

What, when and where...

RMB WineX Cape Town 29 to 30 November

Y

ou’d be crazy to miss Cape Town’s 10th WineX this year. Sponsored by Rand Merchant Bank, WineX is the premier public event on South Africa’s national wine calendar and draws thousands of wine enthusiasts every year. Visitors will have the opportunity to meet and mingle with award-winning winemakers, taste their most recent vintages and trophy wines, while learning about the latest wine gadgets and glassware. So enjoy this year’s Ballroom Buzz with fine wines and culinary delights too. @ CTICC www.winex.co.za

30 November to 2 December

T

he show is a collaboration of the best property, investment and lifestyle companies, as well as an opportunity for business success.

A platinum networking lounge, overlooking the entire show, will allow VIP guests to relax and discuss both national and international investments with company representatives and guest speakers. Existing developments, new developments and exclusive soon-to-be-released developments will also be showcased. @ Sandton Convention Centre www.theinvestmentshow.co.za

INDEX TO ADVERTISERS ATKV

23

Arniston Spa Hotel

15

Club Mykonos Resort

19

Expo Centre Johannesburg

IFC

EXSA

33

Headline Leisure Management

10 & 11

Intercape

28

Legacy Hotels - Kwa Maritane & Bakubung Lodge

17

Oasys Innovation

27

Peermont

OBC

Sandton Convention Centre

IBC

Southern Sun Tsheola Dinare Tours & Transport Vegas Nights Ushaka Marine World

40

MEETINGS SA | NOV/DEC 2012

2 7 37 5

Jewellery & Accessories Expo 17 November

I

t’s a fusion of art and fashion at this year’s Jewellery & Accessories Expo. The expo provides a platform to companies from the jewellery, watch, accessories and precious stone industry to showcase their latest developments and innovations.

Bright accessories such as bags, shoes and jewellery will be displayed on different stands, while divine smelling fragrances and beauty products will have you enjoying a luxurious day of indulgence. @ Protea Edward Hotel, Durban www.fezekisacom.co.za

15 to 17 December

T

he festival focuses on fun, entertainment and family, and will raise funds for charities associated with Rotary International, Round Tables and the Lions Club.

The sports and music events, craft market, stage entertainment, kids attractions as well as decor exhibits and food marquees will keep you busy all day long. Let’s not forget the star of the show: delicious prawns. Whether you like them with peri-peri, lemon butter, garlic, plain or even in a curry, you’ll undoubtedly find something to tantalise your taste buds. @ Seaton Delaval Salt Rock, Ballito www.ballitoprawnfestival.co.za

HALF THE SUCCESS OF AN EVENT IS WHERE YOU HAVE IT. HALF THE SUCCESS OF AN EVENT IS THE TEAM THAT DOES IT.

THAT’S WHY YOU WANT THE BEST OF BOTH. At the heart of South Africa’s business hub, the Sandton Convention Centre is the leading, most prestigious, multipurpose exhibition and convention centre. From pre-event planning, right up to the preparation and presentation of each meal, our professional team pursues every detail to great success. World-class facilities with the latest technology can accommodate every expectation. Combine the perfect location with an outstanding team, and be assured of a winning event at the Sandton Convention Centre.

View our service offering and state-of-the-art facilities at www.saconvention.co.za

SANDTON CONVENTION CENTRE Telephone + 27 11 779 0000 | Facsimile + 27 11 779 0001 | Email scc.info@tsogosun.com

Johannesburg | South Africa

Masterpieces,

WHERE EVENTS BECOME MEETINGS BECOME MAGICAL With our exquisitely appointed venues conveniently situated throughout Southern Africa, your next conference or event will be a bigger success. With quality guaranteed and quotes that are easy to understand, we offer customised solutions for your event, from cuisine to entertainment, technology to security, business services to relaxation â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and more. And with the option of overnight or day conference packages, it will be hard to find better value for money than at a Peermont Resort.

RELAXING STAYS. EXCITING TIMES.

GROUP SALES: Tel: +27 (0)11 928 1903 | Fax: +27 (0)11 928 1551 | E-mail: sales@peermont.com CENTRAL RESERVATIONS: Tel: 0860 777 900 (SA only) | Tel: +27 (0)11 928 1928 | Fax: +27 (0)11 557 0888 Book online at www.peermont.com or Facebook | reservations@peermont.com | or call your local Travel Agent today

Like us

|

Follow us

EMPERORS PALACE in Johannesburg, GRACELAND in Secunda, UMFOLOZI in Empangeni, RIO in Klerksdorp, KHORONI in Thohoyandou, FRONTIER INN in Bethlehem, MMABATHO PALMS in Mafikeng, MONDAZUR in San Lameer, TAUNG in North West Province, THE GRAND PALM, GICC and THE MONDIOR HOTEL in Gaborone, and THE METCOURT HOTEL in Francistown, Botswana.