The Event Issue 2

Issue 02 | 2016

16 FRICA 20 A S G IN T MEE

+MEETINGS + MEETINGS AFRICA 2016

Advancing Africa Together

+INTELLECTUAL + INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY: A HOT BUTTON ISSUE ConCept G calls for further debate

CONTENTS

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02.

01

Exsa Members Give Insight into 2016 Trends

05.

Dragonfly Africa Management Buyout

INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY ConCept G presents another hot-button topic in their series of

06.

ICCA Ranking Recap

08.

Intellectual Property:

thought-leadership articles.

A Hot-Button Issue

MEETINGS AFRICA 2016

10.

Spotlight on PCOs in Africa

12.

Meetings Africa 2016 Show Preview

Welcome one and all to Africa’s premier business event. Turn to page 12 for our special feature.

23.

Part 3 of 6: Convention Planning Support

29.

Tech Talk: Photo Booth Technology

CONVENTION PLANNING SUPPORT

30.

An A-Z Guide to Planning Your Association

The SANCB brings you part 3 of a 6 part series.

Conference: Part 2 of 2

VENUES FOR MEGA EVENTS Planning a massive event and need a venue? Imogen Campbell brings you a rundown of the most well-known.

34.

Mega Event Venues

36.

Events to Diarise

38.

Associations News

40.

Directory of Advertisers

02

SPOTLIGHT

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EXSA MEMBERS GIVE INSIGHT INTO TRENDS FOR 2016

E

xhibitions are one of the most effective mediums for establishing and maintaining customer relations.

In an increasingly digital age, they are the only medium in which buyer, seller and product physically come together – a potent force for any business.

The exhibition industry has received positive feedback after a recent barometer was released, showing its growth on an international scale. A group of key Exhibition and Event Industry of South Africa (EXSA) members sat down to discuss what we can expect from EXSA in 2016, as well as the key trends for the coming year.

What can we expect from EXSA in 2016?

According to Sue Gannon, General Manager of EXSA, “Next year will be a bumper year for EXSA. We’ve got major shows in Durban including the Aids conference. In Johannesburg, we have the Electro-Mining Exhibition, SA Automotive Week and AAD, which is the Africa Aerospace and Defence show at Waterkloof Airbase. These shows attract international attention and bring in a lot of work for our industry”.

The annual EXSA conference will be held at the end of January 2016 and there are plans to address some of the pressing issues within the industry.

“We are looking at upscaling and certifying various sectors within the industry alongside international health and safety training for our workers”, explains Sue. Brad Alder, EXSA Chairman, emphasises that another of the objectives to be addressed at the annual EXSA conference is the recognition of prior experience for those working in the industry.

“This goes a long way to standardising and professionalising the industry”.

Bradley Alder, EXSA chairperson

Andrew Binning, Chairman of the Organiser Forum EXSA

Trends for 2016 •

•

•

Custom stands are not sustainable in today’s economy: “In a shrinking economy, the pressure is on to look after your expenses while maximising efficiencies”, believes Brad. Cladding existing material with fabric or board is an international trend that is becoming more and more prominent.

It’s all about adding value: “The challenge is for EXSA to show value to members and, in a private capacity, show value to clients. In tough times, people are looking for extra mileage for less. It’s up to us to show return on investments”, highlights Andrew Binning, Chairman of the Organiser Forum.

Social media and technology: Nigel Walker, the Immediate Past Chair of EXSA, states that mergers of local and international companies are changing the dynamic in the industry, bringing in

•

innovation in terms of apps and social media. Demand will be made on venues and organisers to reinvent what they do and how they do it.

Venues are no longer traditional: You no longer have to have an exhibition centre to have an exhibition.

Trends for 2016 include venues such as rugby fields with marquees being used to hold events. This diversifies the exhibition industry in South Africa and opens up the industry in Africa to the rest of the world. Africa is a growing market and South Africa is seen as the gateway.

Andrew Billing stresses that the industry is going from strength to strength and concludes by saying, “The event industry in general is quite dynamic and in order to remain at the cutting edge, we will continue being creative and dynamic in our approach to ways to grow the industry”.

04

SANDTON CONVENTION CENTRE

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SCC ROLLS FROM ONE JAM-PACKED YEAR TO ANOTHER

S

andton Convention Centre (SCC), in the heart of South Africa’s bustling business hub, is prepared for a busy 2016, reaching a new level of heightened business hosting, with the average number of large international business and lifestyle events growing significantly, supported by repeat signature events such as the Standard Bank Joy of Jazz, Meetings Africa and Winex.

This year’s calendar is characterised by a variety of influential summits, exhibitions and conferences, featuring headline events such as the two-week CITES CoP17 event for the 181 CITES signatory countries; the inaugural Arnold Classic South Africa sports festival of more than 42 sporting codes, which is to be attended by legendary bodybuilder Arnold Schwarzenegger himself; a wide range of consumer edutainment and entertainment events, as well as international and local public sector, trade and lifestyle events.

“Fifteen years on, in a highly competitive environment, SCC and Johannesburg are riding a great wave and are having our true potential recognised as the African epicentre of business engagement,” says Dr Mati Nyazema, Executive Director of Sandton Convention Centre.

Among the international events at the SCC in 2016 is the Forever Living Products global rally for thousands of Forever business owners; the Annual ICC Banking Commission

Meeting; the Africa & Middle East Conference of Junior Chamber International; Gateway to Space, featuring an extensive collection that depicts the story of NASA and the history of space travel; the Commercial UAV (unmanned aerial vehicle) Show Africa confex; the DISCOP TV loves Africa expo; and many more.

On the local scene, highlights include Meetings Africa, one of the continent’s most significant annual business-tourism events. In 2015, it attracted close to 200 international hosted buyers, 50 African associations and 500 corporate travel buyers. The event showcases Africa’s diverse offering of global meetings services and products where African associations and African meetings industry professionals can partner to help transform the continent.

Nyazema says, “Meetings Africa is an iconic industry event that SCC has been proud to host since its inception 11 years ago. It highlights Africa’s steady climb in the world rankings as a preferred business destination. South Africa is now ranked 32nd most popular destination globally on the International Congress and Convention Association’s (ICCA) global rankings, having hosted 124 international recognised association conferences during 2014, up from its 2013 ranking of 34th, and in sharp contrast to the 12 global events held in 1994.”

Other local events in 2016 include the Proudly South African Buy Local Summit and Expo; the International Franchise Expo, a Franchise Association of SA initiative; and the Joburg Art Fair, which plays a pivotal role in supporting the burgeoning contemporary arts landscape in Africa, providing a space for leading artists, galleries, collectors, writers, thinkers and art lovers to congregate.

For wine and whisky aficionados, RMB WineX wine festival is in October and the FNB Whisky Live festival is in November.

“We’re proud of the amazing diversity of events from small to large-scale that we attract to Sandton Convention Centre, but more particularly, of the fact that more than 60% of our bookings are repeat business, indicating a strong degree of satisfaction with our overall offering,” notes Nyazema.

The SCC features: • Ideal location in the heart of Sandton, South Africa’s business hub • 22 000m2 of flexible event space over four main levels, with venues ranging from an intimate 10-seat function room to the grand Pavilion, which can comfortably cater for 4 500 cocktail guests • Technologically advanced facilities • Striking contemporary Afro-chic décor • A wide range of accommodation options within walking distance • Direct links to renowned exclusive shopping precincts with numerous restaurant choices • Easy access to the Gautrain rapid rail service • Easy access to Johannesburg and other places of interest • Ample safe parking • A friendly, professional and efficient team.

For more information on Sandton Convention Centre, log on to www.saconvention.co.za, join the Facebook page on www.facebook. com/SandtonConventionCentre or follow on Twitter at @SandtonEvents.

NEWS

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05

DRAGONFLY AFRICA MANAGEMENT BUYOUT Dragonfly Africa’s Executive Chairman Rupert Jeffries has announced that four of their executives will acquire additional company shares.

T

he Dragonfly Africa Group, Southern and East Africa’s leading travel and destination management company, is proud to announce that a management buyout of the business has been concluded. CEO Mike Waller and three other executives, Yolanda WoekeJacobs, Director of Sales and Marketing, Barry Schreiber, Director of Finance, and Kerry Roos, Director of Operations and Product Development, will immediately acquire additional shares.

The acquisition was finalised on 15 January 2016 and includes both Dragonfly Africa and Green Route Africa with a combined staff of 55 people. Mr Rupert Jeffries, Executive Chairman, will remain the majority shareholder over a minimum period of four years, after which time the shareholders will be able to acquire all of the remaining shares in Dragonfly Africa and Green Route Africa.

“We are all extremely pleased we have been able to conclude this agreement as an entirely internal matter, with no

“re-event” (verb)

To revitalize your event through innovation c: 082 983 6036

outside parties or institutions involved. It was certainly a challenging and complex negotiation, but the most important ingredient in the end, I believe, was the trust between us all after many years of knowing and understanding each other and the personality of our business,” he said.

“I find it very gratifying to envisage our Group, and our future, in the hands of the very people who have invested so much of their time and expertise over the years, and who were intimately involved in the success of the Group as it stands today.”

06

FEATURE

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ICCA RANKINGS The annual ICCA data for Association Meetings held worldwide in 2015 will be released mid-year 2016. In preparation for the release, we revisit the 2014 data considering South Africa’s achievements.

T

he International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) is a knowledge hub for the international association meetings industry. As authority in this sector, it is representative of the experts who plan and organise these association-related meetings. It releases ranking data annually relating to the number of worldwide and regional meetings per country and city. We have extracted the best with special emphasis on South Africa.

Africa rankings: number of meetings per country

The data covered for the other regions as follows: In Europe, 40 countries were listed with a total number of 6 316 meetings held, meanwhile 206 cities hosted a total of 6 348 meetings.

The Asia Pacific & Middle East 29 countries were listed with a total number of 2 417 meetings held, while 79 cities hosted a total of 2 427 meetings .

In Latin— & North America, 25 countries were listed with a total number of 2 464 meetings held, 104 cities hosted a total of 2 480 meetings.

Africa rankings: number of meetings per city

Rank

Country

# Meetings

Rank

Country

# Meetings

1.

South Africa

124

1.

Cape Town

58

2.

Morocco

36

2.

Johannesburg

23

3.

Kenya

24

3.

Marrakech

21

4.

Egypt

13

5.

Senegal

10

4.

Durban

19

6.

Ivory Coast

7

5.

Nairobi

16

6.

Tunisia

7

6.

Dakar

9

6.

Uganda

7

7.

Stellenbosch

8

7.

Ghana

6

8.

Cairo

6

7.

Nigeria

6

7.

Tanzania

6

7.

Zambia

6

8.

Algeria

5

8.

Cameroon

5

8.

Ethopia

5

9.

5

9.

Addis Ababa

5

9.

Kampala

5

9.

Kigali

5

9.

Mombasa

5

Victoria Falls

5

8.

Rwanda

5

9.

8.

Zimbabwe

5

9.

17 Countries were listed with a total of 308 meetings held. South Africa was top of the list for Africa with almost triple the amount of meetings of its nearest competitor, Morocco, and 100 more than Kenya who secured third place. It also hosted 40% of the region’s meetings in total.

Abidjan

Yaounde

5

15 cities were listed with a total of 310 meetings held. The South African cities, Cape Town, Johannesburg, Durban and Stellenbosch were in the top half of the 15-city list. Cape Town held the most meetings at 58; more than double that of Johannesburg at 23.

Worldwide ranking: number of meetings per country Rank

Country

# Meetings

1.

U.S.A

831

2.

Germany

659

3.

Spain

578

4.

United Kingdom

543

5.

France

533

6.

Italy

452

7.

Japan

337

8.

China

332

9.

Netherlands

307

10.

Brazil

291

32.

South Africa

124

56.

Morocco

36

68.

Kenya

24

75.

Egypt

13

79.

Senegal

10

91.

Ivory Coast

7

South Africa was ranked at 32 out of a possible 111 countries worldwide, with a total of 11 505 meetings held.

Worldwide ranking: number of meetings per city Rank

Country

# Meetings

1.

Paris

214

2.

Vienna

202

3.

Madrid

200

4.

Berlin

193

5.

Barcelona

182

6.

London

166

7.

Singapore

142

8.

Amsterdam

133

9.

Istanbul

130

10.

Prague

118

41.

Cape Town

58

101.

Johannesburg

23

125.

Durban

19

266.

Stellenbosch

8

The South African cities, Cape Town, Johannesburg, Durban and Stellenbosch featured on the worldwide list ranked out of a total of 365 cities, with a total of 11 565 meetings held.

08

FEATURE

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INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY: A HOT-BUTTON ISSUE This call for further discussion is brought to you by ConCept G.

“

I

gnorance has many virtues, amongst them the fact that it tends to produce a feeling of self-confidence which allows one to contemplate large projects with a sense of complete equanimity.”* Globally, intellectual property (IP) violations remain a global concern and this is for good reason. For design houses and in the context of the exhibition and events industry, concept ideas are expensive to produce and the fixed costs of producing knowledge are high. There is the cost of acquiring the extensive and sophisticated hardware and software and the maintenance thereof, the designer’s salary and cost to company, and incentive and performance related bonuses and commissions, where applicable.

It is crucial for designers who are employed in any organisation, to understand the parameters around the IP, copyright and the related company’s property. The company would have a defined policy on intellectual property that protects the company, concepts and or programme design and development created by an individual whilst under the employ of said company, which all fall under the property

and ownership of the company and not the individual. Individuals who wrestle with this concept should perhaps consider taking the risk like other business owners have and go out on their own, without stealing the IP from their employer, of course.

The bottom line is that as an employee, any design or concept or programme that is produced by said employee does not belong

to that employee because the employee is employed to design and produce the designs, concepts and programmes and is remunerated accordingly. If they choose to resign from said employ, they are not allowed to take any IP with them.

An interesting debate lies in the case of a consultant or agency - the consultant or agency would brief an exhibition design company or design house on the end client’s requirements.

To whom does the design belong?

We have already touched on the hot topic of ‘should exhibition companies charge for designs?’ In the case of the agency or consultant in the exhibition and event industry, currently we do not charge our clients for design work – therefore an agency or consultant is not actually

Many members are often asked to quote on designs which are clearly marked as the property of another company and would refuse to do so.

It is unquestionably unethical to do so and this very point is in the EXSA Suppliers Forum Code of Conduct Guidelines.

paying for the design, only the services to realise the exhibition stand, which lends itself to the fact that said design is the property of the exhibition company.

It is less about the product and more about the creation of the product.

If the creation of the product is paid for by a client, to whom does the design belong?

Intellectual property (IP) definition: ‘’is a term referring to creations of the intellect for which a monopoly is assigned to designated owners by law. Some common types of intellectual property rights (IPR) are trademarks, copyright, patents, industrial design rights, and in some countries, trade secrets: all these cover music, literature, and other artistic works; discoveries and inventions; words, phrases, symbols, and designs. While intellectual property law has evolved over centuries, it was not until the 19th century that the term intellectual property began to be used, and not until the late 20th century that it became commonplace in the majority of the world.’’

What is Intellectual Property? It is “intangible property right’’ it describes the ideas, concepts, inventions, technologies, artworks, music and literature, that are intangible when first created, but become valuable in tangible form as products.

Suffice it to say that IP is ‘’the commercial application of imaginative thought to solving technical or artistic challenge. It is not the product itself, but the special idea behind it, the way the idea is expressed, and the distinctive way it is named and described.’’* Why “property”? the term applies only to inventions, works and names for which a person or group of persons claim ownership.

Ownership is important because ‘’experience

FEATURE

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My words and my ideas are my property, and I’ll keep and protect them as surely as I do my stable of unicorns. on a specific stand design for a client whilst in the employ of a stand-designing company, then that design remains the property of the company who employs them. Many members are often asked to quote on designs that are clearly marked as the property of another company and would refuse to do so. It is unquestionably unethical to do so and this very point is in the EXSA Suppliers Forum Code of Conduct Guidelines.”

Gill and Andrew Gibbs of ConCept G has shown that potential economic gain provides a powerful incentive to innovate.”

The Stockholm Convention, which established the World Intellectual Property Organization, states that intellectual property includes the rights relating to: • literary, artistic and scientific works • performances of performing artists, phonograms, and broadcasts • inventions in all fields of human endeavour, scientific discoveries • industrial designs • trademarks, service marks, and commercial names and designations • protection against unfair competition • all other rights resulting from intellectual activity in the industrial scientific, literary or artistic fields Sue Gannon of EXSA says, “Intellectual Property (IP) and Copyright is a well debated issue within the exhibition industry. Louis Nel, the Association’s legal voice, held a workshop for our members on this very subject. At the time, he urged all members to put the Copyright sign “©” on everything.

He also wrote a paragraph on this subject and urged members to use it. It is our understanding that if a designer is working

Conrad Kullman of the 3D Group says, “The 3D Group copywrites all design to the 3D Group. Copywrite or IP is more important to our industry than most, due to the fact that all our designs are unique and one-of-a-kind. When it comes to sales people leaving and approaching our clients, we have trade restraints in place to avoid this. This doesn’t always work out and its mostly the lawyers that make the money in this case.

We do not quote on designs that are sent to us unless they are international clients. In this case we revert back to the client and explain our stance on this situation and their unethical behaviour.”

Liam Beattie of Hott3D says, “We are regularly sent design work done by other agencies for which permission to do so has not been attained. It is inherently dishonest of the sender and speaks volumes about that individual or company’s moral fibre or lack thereof.

As such, we outright refuse to work with them. In effect we blacklist them for all future inquiries and also do our best to trace the source of the designs to advise them of what is going on.

Unfortunately we also experience our design work being sent out for “cheaper” quotes. What the client in those instances fails to realise, is that having facilities to push out 3D designs and renders is very expensive and that cost to company is incorporated into project costs. Regrettably the days of paid pitches are long gone. If pitches

09

were paid for (and they should be) this kind of practice would occur far less”.

Doug Rix of DK Design feels that designers are continually inspired by the intake of visual stimulation all around them each day, but that there is a fine line between incorporating elements of other people’s design ideas into one’s own design concept, versus copying designs outright.

“We include “This is the Property of DK DESIGN” at the base of every presentation drawing.

And, if our design is presented with another company’s design “to quote on”, we immediately try and advise all parties of the infringement”, says Doug.

The impression is often created that IP enforcement is about a conflict between the strong and the weak, the rich and the poor. It is seldom the case: ‘’It is not a moral tussle between the good and the bad, the small and the large. It is a fight over profits by competitors.’’* When you realise that the first patent law was enacted in 1623, intellectual property is not an ancient principle. As the debate over the future of intellectual property unfolds, it will be more important than ever for companies and their employees to have good and sound information concerning the nature of IP. “My words and my ideas are my property, and I’ll keep and protect them as surely as I do my stable of unicorns.”

- Jarod Kintz 1* Charles van Onselen New Babylon New Nineveh (preface to the first edition) 2001.

2* Mr. Justice Harms, Supreme Court of Appeal, South Africa 3* BoehringerIngelheim KG v Swingward Ltd [2000] FSR 529 par 9.

10

FEATURE

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SPOTLIGHT ON PCOs IN AFRICA Professional Conference Organisers play an integral role in our continent’s business-events growth trajectory. Kim Muller catches up with some of the companies working in this sector.

I

t’s been said time and again by many in the industry and in many different ways – Africa is rising, and South Africa is in a pivotal position to facilitate and be part of this continental growth.

At the forefront is the business-events industry, introducing internationals to the natural wonders of the continent, its top-notch hospitality, and ever-developing convention and conference infrastructure.

The Year That Was Many PCOs have reported strong progression, new developments and, of course, some exciting events organised. We spoke to five of these top conference organisers to find out what their highlights were.

Conference Consultancy SA has seen many milestones, thanks to an intensive review of their mid- and long-term business plan. Says Danielle Henn, Operations Manager: “The success we saw in 2015 was mainly as a result of our 2014 goals and our 0% staff turnover – in fact, we added two more positions to our establishment to meet demand,” she explains. “In 2015 we organised more conferences than before, more efficiently and with greater effect...

Our client base expanded, and ultimately our Managing Director, Pieter Swart CMP CMM, was recognised by the Professional Congress Management Association (PCMA) as Global Meeting Executive of the Year 2015, awarded at IMEX Frankfurt.

2015 also saw our internal commitment to professional development with two of our executives studying towards their Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) designation.” Both Danielle Henn and Corné Engelbrecht passed this stringent exam on 27 January – adding to Conference Consultancy South Africa’s achievements.

2015 was an eventful year for Event Dynamics, a division of Tourvest Destination

The South African Property Owners Association Convention and Property Exhibition 2015, organised by Scatterlings Conference and Events © Scatterlings Management. Says Gugu Buthelezi, Team Leader for the Government and Association Division: “Two of our biggest highlights include successfully organising the South African International Renewable Energy Conference in Cape Town, which saw 3 000 international and local delegates coming together to discuss issues around renewable energy. We also had some restructure within the team which has been implemented to create a focused approach in the association and government space, and to create opportunities to upskill current staff in this specialised space.”

MCI Group, whose association business

in SA is predominantly healthcare, finance and education, delivered a growth of almost 10% on gross margin – a great feat considering the current economic climate. “2015 was a growth year on a group level for MCI,” says Sylvia Andres, VP of Marketing and Communications, “New offices in the USA, new partnerships with global partners such as Emirates and Expedia are testimony to this…2015 was an investment year for MCI South Africa. That being said, we have started making in-roads with both the local corporate and association market and are optimistic for the years ahead.” In Africa,

FEATURE

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they successfully activated two high-profile international association conferences for the Project Management Institute and the African Securities Exchange Association.

Scatterlings Conference and Events have seen some tremendous growth, having secured a number of significant, large international association conferences until 2018. 2015 was another year of stellar performance, says Managing Director Rowan Moss. “Highlights included the organisation of the World Congress of Pharmacology at the CTICC and the International Mineralogical Congress at the Sandton Convention Centre.

Other key conferences included another spectacular SAPOA Convention, IFLA/ LIASA Conference. Scatterlings continued is successful Medical congress with the WITS Paediatric Fund conferences, WITS golf day, ICPA Conference, SA HTA Conference, National Blood Transfusion Congress as well as the Microscopy Congress. Scatterlings also did extensive work in the construction sector with the Master Builders Southern Africa conference, the SACPCMP Conference and the WABER Conference in Ghana.”

Tribal Meetings has also seen growth, although not in the same way as 2014, says newly appointed CEO, Nadia Allie.

“We have added four new clients to our database who gave us good turnover for 2015,” she explains, adding that they are in the process of expanding their DNC division to increase their flagship products whilst maintaining their presence in the conference arena. After fourteen years at the helm, Muhammad Khan has resigned as CEO and Allie, who has been Acting CEO for the last few years, has taken over the position.

Forging Ahead into New Markets Although 2016 is set to be a year of consolidation for MCI Group’s business in South Africa, the company is growing

There is enormous potential for international associations to grow their membership by hosting congresses in Africa.

its Johannesburg offices, and plans are underway for a satellite branch in Durban.

Andres says the future of MICE in Africa looks bright. “On an educational level, there is enormous potential for international associations to grow their membership by hosting congresses in Africa...strong currency exchange rates also make Africa a more attractive destination for the international market. For the incentive market, there are many spectacular, luxurious, yet affordable destinations in Africa, if you know where to look.” She goes on to say that South Africa’s place on the continent is secure: “Not only are there a huge number of South African professionals and academics gaining notable reputations on the international stage, the country itself is world-renowned for its beauty, diversity and hospitality.”

Scatterlings will continue with repeat business from Europe, after having organised conferences in Zambia, Mauritius, Rwanda, Ghana, Kenya and Namibia recently. A bulk of their 2016 conferences is located in the SADC, says Moss. “Scatterlings Conference and Events is organising all the conferences for the African Union Foundation and this exposes us to the entire African continent…Our big congress for 2016 is the World Psychiatry Congress at the CTICC.” He says South Africa will remain a powerhouse in the MICE market.

Tribal Meetings will continue investing in the USA. “We have done good business from the USA for the last 16 years and have grown in this market,” Allie explains, although she adds that Africa is the new economy.

“If one considers that four of the fastestgrowing economies in the world are in Africa, one in three people are moving towards becoming middle class in a population of 1.1 billion, that number presents a huge opportunity…The MICE industry should be poised to exploit this opportunity.”

Event Dynamics will focus on growing business in the Association and Government space says Buthelezi. “A crucial element of this space is to have skilled staff as this is how we win tenders; upskilling or developing the current team is therefore a key focus area for 2016.” She goes on to say she is confident in SA’s place in Africa’s growing businessevents economy. “South Africa has always been the gateway into Africa for the businessevents space. With the current status of the Rand, hosting conferences or events in South Africa is fast-becoming an attractive

11

alternative option. Confirmed conferences in South Africa are seeing maximum capacities of international delegations which are also boosting our touristic portfolios.”

Conference Consultancy SA will be maintaining their business plan in 2016 and looking into the future to optimise their core competencies and build on the existing focus areas. “Our focus will remain on servicing our local clients, however some of these clients are broadening their scope into Africa and East Africa in particular,” Henn explains.

“Generally, our off-shore expansion is with clients in North America and Europe, and we will continue to grow that business.”

PCO Achievements These are just a few of the highlevel events and feats by PCOs, a testament to our industry’s ever-growing success.

• MCI’s team successfully produced a congress with over 14 000 participants while managing two other huge congresses in Toronto (7 000 delegates) and Korea (7 000 delegates), MCI USA was launched, and won two ICARUS awards.

• Scatterlings have secured a number of international association conferences including: INTS 2016, SAVCA 2016, Rotary International Presidents Conference, World Council of Entersomal Therapists, SA HIV Clinicians Conference, South African Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism Congress, National Pharmacy Congress, World Psychiatry Congress 2016, Joint Assembly of IAMAS, IAPSO and IGA 2017, and International Congress of Endocrinology 2018 with 8 000 pax.

• Event Dynamics organised the South African International Renewable Evergy Conference with 3 000 pax, and SAIREC 2015.

• Conference Consultancy SA Managing Director, Pieter Swart CMP CMM, received the PCMA Global Meeting Executive of the Year 2015.

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FEATURE

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MEETINGS AFRICA 2016 Meetings Africa is back on 22 to 24 February 2016, showcasing Africa’s diverse offerings; the premier event for associations and industry professionals to network and do business.

Opening Ceremony © Reg Caldecott

T

he global meetings industry has turned its eye to Africa in recent years, and this has never been more apparent than the yearon-year success that Meetings Africa has had in attracting business to the continent.

By showcasing the wonderfully diverse products and services we have to offer, Meetings Africa is, as its name suggests, a meeting place where African associations and African meeting professionals can partner to transform the continent.

Last year saw a remarkable quality in meetings at the trade show, with James Seymour, CEO of Durban KZN Convention Bureau saying, “By the end of day one, we had three serious proposals on the table.

This is exceptional by any standard and proves to us that Meetings Africa is an excellent place to do business with quality buyers.” A number of hosted buyers and delegates had their first experience last year, with many looking forward to returning. Exhibitors were just as delighted by the business platform, proving the show’s return on investment once again.

The eleventh edition of Meetings Africa already has a packed programme. The event kicks off with BONDAY (Business Opportunity Networking Day) on Monday, 22 February. The day is designed to provide educational and networking opportunities for the South African business-events industry. Association Day, the IMEX-MPIMCI Future Leader Forum Africa, the AIPC Africa Summit, the Event Greening Forum AGM, a Business Events Associations Joint Conference, and an IAPCO Bespoke Seminar are all taking place at various times between 9am and 4:30pm. The following day sees the Opening Ceremony of Meetings Africa, along with Exhibition Day 1, the glamorous Gala Dinner, and the annual Media Face Off, while Day 3 sees things winding down with a Local Corporate Buyer Event and the Green Stand Awards for the top sustainable exhibition stands at Meetings Africa.

Association Day Association executives from across the continent will converge on Meetings Africa to participate. Designed for

executives to gain insight into the latest trends, network with industry peers, and form new relationships, the programme is presented in conjunction with the ICCA Africa Chapter.

The African Society for Association Executives (AfSAE) will hold its first AGM at Meetings Africa 2016. Established at last year’s event, AfSAE will use the trade show to enable the local business-event industry and associations to interact, creating a business development and education platform for the industry.

IMEX-MPI-MCI Future Leader Forum Africa We’ve seen some incredibly talented youth join these sessions, and this year will be no exception. Top final year students studying meetings and conventions, tourism or hospitality at tertiary institutions from the Tourism Educators of South Africa will once again compete for the International University Challenge. Although a closed session, these are future leaders we should definitely be watching out for.

FEATURE

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AIPC Africa Summit The International Association of Convention Centres (AIPC) represents a global network of over 175 leading convention centres in 57 countries with the active involvement of over 900 management-level professionals.

With this much clout, the AIPC’s second annual summit is much-anticipated, and will address topics that are of particular relevance to our rapidly developing region.

The programme features a number of interactions with other elements of the Meetings Africa programme to encourage further exchanges. The morning will see Rod Cameron, Executive Director of the AIPC, present a talk called Africa in Context: Global Industry Trends, Performance and Prospects, while a panel of local CEOs will talk Perceived Challenges and

Solutions from South Africa’s Major Convention Centres. Paul Flackett, MD of the IMEX Group will present Trade Shows: Role and Relevance, while another panel discussion will close the summit.

Business Events Associations Joint Conference The industry has realised the importance of Advancing Africa Together, and as such, a full-day workshop will bring together top international and local speakers offering exciting new glimpses at their areas of expertise. This is the second year business-events associations have joined forces to collaborate on this programme, with EXSA, EGF, IFEA Africa and SAACI arranging this year’s programme. The theme for 2016 is Inspiring an Industry, and will cover topics like the importance of delivering a ‘wow’ site inspection and using your branding correctly.

IAPCO Bespoke Seminar Aimed at professional conference organisers, convention bureaux, convention centres and large conference hotels, IAPCO’s seminar will focus on current dilemmas, from bidding and getting true value from site inspections, to

The AIPC’s second annual summit is much-anticipated, and will address topics that are of particular relevance to our rapidly developing region.

Morning Live © Reg Caldecott

13

digital marketing and sponsorship. The programme will also cover the face of the meetings industry today, as well as content development, and strategic marketing. Jan Tonkin, MD at The Conference Company, Alain Pittet, MD at Congrex Switzerland and Deborah Sexton, CEO of PCMA will speak.

Opening Ceremony and Gala Dinner The fanfare at the Meetings Africa opening ceremony will no doubt return for another year. In addition to opening the trade floor at 8am on 23 February, the ceremony also includes a live Morning Live broadcast with a keynote address by Minister of Tourism Derek Hanekom – as well as the symbolic ringing of the bell.

Following the opening of the exhibition hall, Hanekom will go on the traditional Minister’s Walkabout, where media are provided with photo opportunities with key stakeholders and exhibitors.

The gala dinner is also an exciting part of the show, bringing together exhibitors, international and local hosted buyers, and many others. Ideal for networking and celebrating a successful first exhibition day, you can expect to enjoy delicious culinary dishes, first-class entertainment, and of course, delightful company.

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FEATURE

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The Minister’s Walkabout © Reg Caldecott

AMANDA KOTZENHLAPO: WE NEED EACH OTHER We caught Amanda Kotze-Nhlapo, Chief Convention Bureau Officer of the SANCB, at the official launch of the trade show to find out why this event is not to be missed.

M

eetings Africa has become more and more focused on bringing value to delegates who attend the show. And thanks to the global recognition the continent is getting as the market place of the future, Meetings Africa is perfectly positioned to showcase its diverse offerings and to help create meaningful partnerships across the MICE industry. South Africa is at the forefront of this movement to band the wider continent together, having attracted 69 955 international association professionals in 2015 holding its position as the top convention destination in Africa and the Middle East.

Many exhibitors at this year’s event are most excited about the Corporate Business to Business Speed marketing

Sessions. Meetings Africa has once again partnered with Unique Speaker Bureau to host local corporate buyers at the 2016 show. Other highlights include the IMEXMPI-MCI Future Leader Forum Africa, the AIPC Africa Summit, the IAPCO Bespoke Seminar and, of course, BONDAY. Amanda Kotze-Nhlapo, Chief Convention Bureau Officer of the South Africa National Convention Bureau, says this year’s campaign is ‘Think Africa’. “We want to showcase the best products and services that Africa has to offer. This will be reflected at Meetings Africa,” she explains.

“Meetings Africa gives opportunities to meet international minds without travelling out of your own country. But it’s not just about international hosted buyers, we on the continent need each other.”

South Africa has realised the potential of African associations and is focused on creating rotating events between countries on the continent. Of the 2 000 African association meetings that took place last year, only 13 were hosted in SA.

Meetings Africa is perfectly positioned to showcase its diverse offerings and to help create meaningful partnerships across the MICE industry.

FEATURE

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EXHIBITORS AT MEETINGS AFRICA With Meetings Africa just around the corner, we caught up with some of the exhibitors to find out what they’re offering, why Meetings Africa is important for them, and what their expectations are for the show.

What can we expect from Durban ICC “The Durban ICC has developed a number of innovative packages for our various target markets, which we will be launching at the show!”

Robyn D’Alessandro, National Marketing Manager, Gearhouse Group

Aquila Private Game Reserve is one of the companies that will be exhibiting and networking at this year’s Meetings Africa. © Aquila Private Game Reserve

Scott Langley, Marketing and Sales Manager, Durban ICC What they’re most looking forward to “We are looking forward to the opportunity to see our loyal clients, and for the chance to meet some new clients. The highlights we are looking forward to including the B2B Speed Marketing Sessions and the AIPC Africa Summit.”

Why this is an important event for Durban ICC “The show is the best showcase of the excellent business-events products that South Africa and the rest of the continent have to offer. The show seems to be growing from strength to strength each year and always offer great leads for the Durban ICC.”

What they’re most looking forward to “Meetings Africa is always a great opportunity for the Gearhouse Group to connect with the International Hosted Buyers and Local Corporates, as well as many of our clients who are also participants. As INHOUSE Venue Technical Management, one of the Gearhouse Group companies, caters specifically for small to medium sized events within venues; Meetings Africa is a good platform to connect with the venues that we are already servicing as well.

“I am particularly excited to participate in the Corporate B2B Speed Marketing Session this year. We did something similar last year and it was good for us to have that intensive interaction organised on our behalf. I am hoping that the contacts made this year will be useful ones for us.”

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NH The Lord Charles will be exhibiting their latest offerings at Meetings Africa 2016. © NH The Lord Charles

Jaco Du Plooy, Sales, Marketing and Revenue Manager, NH The Lord Charles Hotel What they’re most looking forward to “We had a tremendously successful Meetings Africa last year. It was an exciting year for us, as we had just started our renovation programme. Now, with the renovations complete, we look forward to sharing the results with our clients and buyers. We are so proud of our brand new hotel and we can’t wait to share this with the world.”

Aquila Private Game Reserve is looking forward to their visit to Meetings Africa this February. © Aquila Private Game Reserve Why this is an important event for Gearhouse Group “This event focuses us on the corporate and associations business-events market; we cover many different sectors but these are unique in that they are planning their events so far out. As a supplier, we are generally engaged only at the end of the line, but this exhibition facilitates an early client/supplier interface and we get the opportunity to give technical input from the outset, which can positively impact both the outcome and the budgets.

“Whilst most of the Association or Meetings Planners know exactly what they want to achieve; it’s up to us to advise them on the latest technical capabilities to help them achieve their outcomes in the most efficient and economical way.”

Adriaan Liebetrau, CEO, SAACI On SAACI’s focus at Meetings Africa 2016 “This year SAACI and Meetings Africa partner associations such as EXSA, SITE and the EGF collaborated to bring you an exciting joint Business Events Associations Conference on Monday, 22 February at BONDAY. The programme’s theme is around inspiring an industry, with topics geared to help our industry prepare for a different trading year. We have been able to secure two local speakers and six international speakers traveling to South Africa from Uruguay, the United States of America, Austria, the United Kingdom and Norway. This conference is not to be missed, pre-registration is open on the Meetings Africa website.”

Why this is an important event for NH Hotel Group “We have been attending Meetings Africa since its inception and we will continue to support the show in future. We feel that as one of the premier conference destinations in the Western Cape and indeed in SA, that Meetings Africa is the perfect platform for us to showcase our product and meet existing and potential clients. We see real ROI every year we attend the show.”

Things you should know before Meetings Africa “We have just completed an extensive renovation of the hotel. The refurbishment project, which unfolds in phases, focuses largely on the lobby area and conference centre of the hotel, but also included upgrades to 100 guest rooms. These include new, super comfortable beds and the installation of state-of-the-art, 42-inch smart televisions in all rooms to name but a few.

To complement the new look rooms, the ensuite bathrooms also received a makeover.”

FEATURE

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Robin Mcleod, Manager: Group Marketing, Dragonfly Africa Why this is an important event for Dragonfly Africa Group “As one of Southern and East Africa’s leading destination management companies, we are fully supportive of the South Africa National Convention Bureau’s efforts in promoting our destination to the international MICE arena. This is one of the main reasons we attend Meetings Africa on a yearly basis. We are also firm believers that it is a case of ‘seeing is selling’, i.e. we need to physically get the international buyers to our destination, so by the time they return home they become life-long ambassadors of our country.”

Chelsea Pharo, Domestic and International Sales, Aquila Safari What they’re most looking forward to “We are looking forward to meeting new buyers and PCOs, to penetrate the local and international corporate market, to build on existing relationships and look for new opportunities. We are excited to attend the Corporate B2B Speed Marketing Session that will be held on Tuesday, the 23rd.

Why this is an important event for Aquila Safari “This is one of the few platforms where Aquila gets to work directly with the buyers, and has the opportunity to update and inform them about our products latest development plans. The business leads that we have received on this platform have been lucrative.”

What can we expect from Aquila Safari “Aquila has had the blessing of four baby Rhinos born in less than two months,

we have also added a new conference centre, star gazing and wine tasting as value adds. We are looking forward to meeting with clients and giving them all this updated information.”

Justin Hawes, Managing Director, Scan Display What he’s most looking forward to “I am looking forward to the Business Events Associations Joint Conference, taking place on 23 February. The Conference has been organised by EXSA, EGF, IFEA Africa, SAACI and SITE and includes a full-day programme covering topics like ‘how to conduct a great site inspection’ and ‘how to use branding correctly’. The Gala dinner has always been a highlight of Meetings Africa. With exceptional entertainment and food, one is guaranteed of a wonderful evening.”

Why this is an important event for Scan Display “Synergy Business Events and Scan Display have jointly exhibited at Meetings Africa for over 10 years. We have found Meetings Africa to be an excellent source of leads. Although the show doesn’t have a big footprint, over the years the quality of leads has been solid.

Last year we developed a partnership with the South Africa Development Community (SADC), which paid for our stand.”

17

Guido Ceruti, CFO, Pure Grit Project and Exhibitions Management What they’re most looking forward to “Being an applicant. As the exhibition and event organiser of shows, Indaba Travel and Tourism Exhibition on behalf of South African Tourism, we are not used to being the applicant in an exhibition. On a more serious note, the one-on-one meetings with potential and existing clients will be beneficial. It is very important to continually seek new opportunities and maintain existing relationships.”

Why this is an important event for Pure Grit “As our first Meetings Africa, we are looking to fast track an increase in sales, by networking and creating Pure Grit brand awareness. We are expanding our current business in South Africa and in greater Africa through our Tanzanian office.”

What can we expect from Pure Grit “Pure Grit is always looking at expanding, with three new exhibitions planned for 2016/2017. We are not in the business of copying existing functioning exhibitions and are looking forward to ‘shaking’ the market up.”

We are looking forward to meeting new buyers and PCOs, to penetrate the local and international corporate market, to build on existing relationships and look for new opportunities.

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FEATURE

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MEETINGS AFRICA 2016 TO FOCUS ON THE KNOWLEDGE ECONOMY AND INNOVATION Meetings Africa’s business-events strategy is focused on building and accelerating South Africa’s knowledge economy.

M

eetings Africa, the premier business-events trade show hosted annually by South African Tourism, was officially launched to the press on 28 January this year. The show has attracted the best minds in the global business-events industry for its eleventh edition. With a bevy of global business events experts and top-calibre international speakers ready to share valuable insights into global best practises and trends, Meetings Africa 2016 is gearing up for its most prestigious edition yet and is set to be of immense value to all attendees and to the overall growth of this tourism sector.

“The business-events industry is a great driver of economic development and South Africa’s business-events strategy is focused on building and accelerating its knowledge. South Africa is leading from the front in continental collaboration and partnerships to grow our own industry and contribute towards growing continental capacity and ultimately spearhead profound transformation in Africa,” says Acting CEO at South African Tourism, Sthembiso Dlamini.

A new and exciting element at this year’s Meetings Africa is the addition of

the European Cities Market (ECM) Summer School scheduled to take place just ahead of Meetings Africa from the 19th to the 21st of February. Keenly anticipated, this will be the first time that this initiative happens in South Africa. It will cover topics and subjects aimed at improving South Africa’s global competitiveness and will showcase the most up-to-date trends in the meetings industry. Speakers include: • Jonathan Cohen, Owner of the destination marketing specialist company Azimuth Marketing Communications in the United Kingdom(UK) • Barbara Jamison, Head of Business Development at the London Convention Bureau • Mark Spivey, Director of International Sales at Maritim Hotels in the UK • Anja Loetscher, Director of the Geneva Convention Bureau in Switzerland • Anne Wallin Rodven, Convention Director of Oslo Promotion – Visitors and Convention Bureau in Norway • Italy’s Pier Paolo Mariotti, Meeting Manager at EURAC Research and managing director of the EURAC and TIS Convention Centre

The business-events industry is a great driver of economic development and South Africa’s business-events strategy is focused on building and accelerating its knowledge.

“With knowledge economy and innovation top on the agenda, Meetings Africa 2016 also boasts a high number of international and regional buyers under one roof. We are very thrilled by this. By learning from our global partners, we can gain great insights into the structure and functioning of our industry, and advance the global competitiveness of the Africa continent as a whole,” says Amanda Kotze-Nhlapo, Chief Convention Bureau Officer at the SANCB. On Sunday, 21 February, the African Society of Association Executives (AfSAE) will officially open its Johannesburg office in a ribbon-cutting ceremony with hosted buyers and stakeholders. This is one of the many ground-breaking and innovative developments at this year’s show because through this association, South Africa will be able to encourage meetings to be held and rotated across the continent.

The first official day of the actual trade show (22 February) also known as BONDAY (Business Opportunities Networking Day) will be held and features a variety of global, regional and local speakers imparting knowledge on an array of topics affecting the business-events industry. BONDAY is designed to equip the industry, providing educational sessions for them to learn news trends and therefore further their business.

Meetings Africa 2016 has attracted over 600 international, local and regional buyers looking for venues to host everything from high-level exhibitions and conferences to small corporate meetings.

FEATURE

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Sandton Registration © SCC

SANDTON CONVENTION CENTRE GEARS UP FOR MEETINGS AFRICA The Sandton Convention Centre will once again host Meetings Africa as a pivotal player in building South Africa’s business-tourism profile.

S

andton Convention Centre has hosted Meetings Africa since its inception eleven years ago, and has witnessed first-hand how this trade show has helped Africa’s steady climb in the world rankings as the preferred business destination. SCC has seen a variety of highprofile events through its doors in 2015, including the recent African Union Summit.

“Meetings Africa is the best platform to demonstrate that business tourism in South Africa is coming of age because of the increased number of international hosted buyers,” Mati Nyazema, Executive Director at SCC, explains. “In the recent years, the business-events industry has scaled new heights in terms of the type of volume of events hosted. The industry has also matured rapidly in its international business events.”

Dr Nyazema will be participating in the AIPC Africa Summit’s CEO Panel at Meetings Africa along with Julie-May Ellingson of the CTICC and Lindiwe Rakharebe of Durban ICC. This is the second year that the AIPC Africa Summit will be held, this time with

the theme of The Big Picture: Africa in Context with Global Industry Trends and Conditions. The CEO panel will strive to establish the context for AIPC Summit discussions by combining a global overview of key industry issues, challenges and opportunities in the international sphere. Dr Nyazema will present Our Industry’s Top Market Challenges and New Opportunities for Business Growth.

The convention centre’s 2016 calendar is already filled with influential summits, exhibitions and conferences, including the two-week CITES CoP17 event for the 181 CITES signatory countries, and the inaugural Arnold Classic SA Sport Festival where legendary bodybuilder, actor and politician Arnold Schwarzenegger is set to attend.

A wide range of consumer edutainment and entertainment events, as well as international and local public sector, trade and lifestyle events are also on the calendar.

Sandton Convention Centre is the conferencing flagship of the Tsogo Sun group, who will be present at Meetings

Meetings Africa is the best platform to demonstrate that business tourism in South Africa is coming of age.

Africa showcasing their products and engaging with clients. The centre has over 22 000m² of state-of-the-art meeting, exhibition and special event space, with some of the most advanced exhibition and conferencing technology in the world. Its central position with easy access to the international airport, Gautrain rapid rail, Sandton CBD and major hotels makes it a firm favourite for event planners. Tsogo Sun is the leading hotels, gaming, and entertainment company in the country, encompassing 14 casinos and over 90 hotels across South Africa, Africa and the Seychelles.

CRYSTAL EVENTS Crystal Events and Incentives are all about creating unique experiences, from international conferences to corporate incentive programmes.

With more than 25 years in travel and corporate hospitality, Team Crystal endeavours to fully explore each client’s requirements and ensure the proposal meets both client budget and personal taste. The team is creative and makes every effort to come up with new and innovative programmes. t: +27 84 682 7676 e: tes@crystalevents.co.za www.crystalevents.co.za

EXHIBITION FREIGHTING G.S.M HOW WE WORK: 1. Instruct our colleagues in your country to make contact with you. 2. Collect your display material from your door. 3. Import your product into South Africa. 4. Take care of necessary SA customs procedures.

5. Store your products until the build-up date of the event. 6. Deliver your products to your booth. 7. Store the empty packages. 8. Visit you and discuss the outward movement of your products from the event. 9. Re-export your products back to its origin or send it onto another event. t. +27 21 552 7248 f. +27 21 552 2349 e. ef-gsm@ef-gsm.co.za

PROTEA HOTEL STELLENBOSCH Stellenbosch is the second-oldest town in SA with magnificent mountain ranges, scenic drives and wine tasting. With two neighbouring golf courses, this 180-bedroom hotel offers guests the best of the Winelands and the largest conferencing venues in Stellenbosch,accommodating up to 800 in eight venues alternatively.

Day conferencing packages, event equipment and WiFi are readily available. t: +27 21 880 9500 e: banquetm@phstellenbosch.com w: proteahotels.com/stellenbosch

STORAGE

SETBUILD Born in ’88, Setbuild is South Africa’s leading exhibition stand building company.

From wrapping Johannesburg Sun in a red ribbon to the most breathtaking events and launches, Setbuild is your one-stop shop in advertising architecture.We offer design, construction, project, management and consulting for exhibitions, brand activations, corporate events, conferences, point of sale and television.Our factory is fully equipped with state of the art machinery, an in-house digital printing division and vinyl cutting department.

We also offer laser and digital CNC cutting. t: +27 11 452 1808 e: marketing@setbuild.co.za www.setbuild.co.za www.facebook.com/setbuild

URBANTONIC Urbantonic is one of Cape Town largest and most successful Event Logistics companies focusing on servicing the Events, Incentive, Exhibition and Film industries. Our services include the following: • Full Event Management • Event Rental • Furniture Rental • Mobile Event Bars • Event Décor and styling • Event Staffing We have a team of 50 working to deliver quality service for our clients. We don’t do boring, we don’t do bland. t. +27 21 713 4439 e. info@urbantonic.co.za www.urbantonic.co.za

USB USB is a premier speaker management company comprising top national and international speakers. We work pro-actively with clients and speakers and have assisted event planners with thousands of events over the past five years, including hosting the Speakers Corner at leading business-related expos and indabas around South Africa. www.uniquespeakerbureau.com Twitter: USB Twitter I Linked In: USB Linked In I Facebook: Unique Speaker Bureau t. +27 11 465 4410 c. +27 83 268 6057 e. paul@uniquespeakerbureau.com

Unique Speaker Bureau represent Premier Speakers with exceptional credentials Unique Speaker Bureau (USB) is the agent of choice when it comes to sourcing high level professionals for conferences and corporate events. Unique Speaker Bureau’s team of keynote speakers, MCs and program directors (facilitators) are carefully chosen for their presentation content, professionalism, expertise, experience, depth and collaboration.

Unique Speaker Bureau represent Premier Speakers with exceptional credentials Unique Speaker Bureau (USB) is the agent of choice when it comes to sourcing high level professionals for conferences and corporate events. Unique Speaker Bureau’s team of keynote speakers, MCs and program directors (facilitators) are carefully chosen for their presentation content, professionalism, expertise, experience, depth and collaboration.

USB speakers have solid speaker & MC credentials, we rely on repeat business and deliver excellence constantly.

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SOUTH AFRICA NATIONAL CONVENTION BUREAU in partnership with the CONVENTION PLANNING SUPPORT

Part 3 of 6

© Courtesy of Durban ICC

SOUTH AFRICA NATIONAL CONVENTION BUREAU Part 3 of 6

in partnership with the

Convention Planning Support

Key services during the Convention Planning stage

Locating Suppliers A well-planned conference requires the co-ordinated efforts of numerous

The South Africa National Convention Bureau (the SANCB) is perfectly positioned

Sourcing Venues

suppliers, such as stand designers

to assist with planning a congress,

South Africa has myriad business-event

and builders, catering companies,

meeting, expo or convention in South

venues that cater for events of any size.

entertainment, translation services,

Africa. Their team has effective working

The SANCB understands that no two

professional speakers, security, transport,

relationships with an extensive database

events are the same, therefore they will

graphic designers, décor experts, audio-

of local service providers. The SANCB

tailor-make a list of recommended venues

visual experts and many other technical

can also facilitate collateral materials,

according to the specific needs of the

suppliers. The SANCB works with City and

government liaison and advice on

event. Whether it’s a conference for

Provincial Convention Bureaus to propose

destination and local issues.

2 000 in one of South Africa’s Centres of

recommended suppliers, and facilitate

Excellence, or a convention for 15 000

business relationships.

South Africa has an outstanding track

in the heart of Cape Town, the SANCB

record in hosting international business

will find the perfect venue. Durban

Compiling Cost Estimates

events, with highlights including:

International Convention Centre has

Conferences require complex budgets that

• COP17

been named the best conference centre

must be adhered to strictly. The SANCB

• 5th BRICS Summit

in Africa more than 10 times, the Cape

understands the importance of these

• World Economic Forum

Town International Convention Centre

budgets, and will propose Professional

• UIA World Congress of Architects

is undergoing a massive expansion, and

Conference Organisers that can assist with

• The World Congress of Paediatric

the brand-new Century City Conference

budget-related matters. South Africa has

Centre is open for business, which further

dozens of excellent PCOs that are skilled

highlights the diversity of South Africa’s

in all aspects of conference organising,

venue offering.

including costings and budgets.

Cardiology and Cardiac Surgery • 17th International Conference of HIV/ AIDS and STIs in Africa

Case Study: UIA2014

These cost estimates could include:

conference. The SANCB works closely with

• Accommodation

South Africa’s myriad venues, and is ideally

• Catering

positioned to facilitate the inspection of

The local organising committee of

• Graphics

suitable venues.

the International Union of Architects commissioned the services of the Durban

• Printing and Publishing

KwaZulu-Natal Convention Bureau in the

• Venue Signage

Advising on Pre- and Post-Tour Opportunities

• Audio and Visual Services

South Africa has an abundance of pre-

Karen Eicker, UIA2014 Commissary General

• Technical Services

and post-tour opportunities. Conference

explains the Convention Planning process

• Photographers

delegates will be able to see for themselves

as follows: “A number of the Congress

• Transport

what millions of travellers flock to see every

suppliers were sub-contracted through

• Publicity and Promotion

year on SA’s shores. From wine-tasting

our PCO, Turners. Other suppliers that we

• Entertainment

along the world’s longest wine route, to

appointed had to go through a stringent

exploring Gauteng’s cultural precincts, to

bidding process that involved responding

Submitting and Monitoring RFPs

visiting the country’s renowned Kruger

to a Request for Proposals with information

The SANCB and the relevant local convention

National Park; the SANCB can advise the

on previous relevant experience, a vision for

bureau will ease the planning process by

organising committee on the most rewarding

their role in the project, references, BBBEE

submitting requests for proposals in-house,

destinations and activities to consider for

certificates and tax clearance certificates.

and carefully monitoring the progression

their delegates.

Short-listed candidates were

• Website Development

years prior to the World Congress in 2014.

of each.

Co-ordinating Site Inspections Site inspections are an integral aspect of the planning phase as they inform decision makers on the locations, facilities and incentive options that will work best for the

The SANCB provides convention planning support for international conferences, including locating suppliers, recommending PCOs and facilitating site inspections.

SOUTH AFRICA NATIONAL CONVENTION BUREAU in partnership with the

Part 3 of 6

then interviewed by a committee from the UIA2014 Organisation Committee and rated against a set of criteria that was drawn up relevant to the particular tasks that would be undertaken, in order to ensure that candidates were being evaluated fairly and in accordance with the same criteria.

Karen and her team approached the

“I would strongly recommend that any organisation wanting to bid for an event of this nature approaches the SANCB when the bid process is initiated in order to derive the maximum benefit from the SANCB’s expertise and network of stakeholders and affiliates.”

SANCB one year before the Congress, and they came on board in early 2014 with much-needed financial support,

Hassan Asmal, President of the UIA2014

with them from an early stage enables

and assisted with reaching the media in

Congress, said “Formal contact with the

one to set the base requirements quickly.

the run up to the conference. “Through

SANCB took place about a year before

This then allows the team to explore ways

our conference organisers, Turners

the Congress itself. We found the input

of adding to these base requirements in

Conferencing, we also began having regular

and additional organisational assistance

order to make the event more than just a

meetings with Durban Tourism and the

of the SANCB invaluable. Being their

normal congress. One that should make

Durban KZN Convention Bureau at the

core function, the SANCB has extensive

for a better congress as well as a more

Durban ICC in the year leading up to the

experience relating to conference

enlightening experience of the host city as

Congress, around stakeholder involvement

organising especially when it comes to

well as the country.”

and support from a communications and

protocol and regulatory issues as well as

logistics point of view.” said Karen.

other congress-related activities. Working

“The SANCB and Durban KZN Convention Bureau’s involvement was invaluable in terms of stakeholder coordination and advice around logistics,

“Durban was excited to host this significant architectural event, hosted for the first time in Sub-Saharan Africa. We welcomed the dialogue around the creation of human settlements - in particular humane cities - and showcased the initiatives our City has undertaken.” – Naledi Moyo, Deputy City Manager eThekwini Municipality

marketing and communications. I would strongly recommend that any organisation wanting to bid for an event of this nature approaches the SANCB when the bid process is initiated in order to derive the maximum benefit from the SANCB’s expertise and network of stakeholders and affiliates.” Karen Eicker concluded.

SANCB Support Services

SANCB SUPPORT SERVICES BIDDING SUPPORT • Bid Strategy • Bid Document • Lobbying • Bid Promotion • Bid Presentations

SITE INSPECTION SUPPORT • Bidding Site inspection • Convention Planning Site Inspections

CONVENTION PLANNING SUPPORT • Planning support • Venue and supplier recommendations Final decision with client

DELEGATE BOOSTING SUPPORT • Marketing support to promote the SA conference • Delegate attendance promotion

ORGANISER / KEY DECISION MAKER FOCUSED

For destination expertise and convention planning support, contact the South Africa National Convention Bureau.

T: +27 (0)11 895 3000 E: convention@southafrica.net W: www.businessevents.southafrica.net

ON SITE SERVICES • Support toward on site elements of the event

DELEGATE / CONSUMER FOCUSED

TECH TALK

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29

PHOTO BOOTH TECHNOLOGY It’s pretty hard to believe that there could be innovations in photo booths, but because tech develops so rapidly, your event memories can be treasured even more, says Kim Muller.

A

picture says a thousand words, or so the old adage goes. These days, everyone can agree that in our visual world, they can often say so much more than a thousand, and can become the catalyst for global conversations. And that’s why when you’re planning an event with a photo booth you should consider all your options – especially the cool ones. Here’s a rundown of the crazy awesome tech innovations in this realm.

Unlearn & Reframe at the the Healthcare Convention & Exhibitors Association © Czarnowski Display Services Inc.

1. Go the GIF Route This is a fun one, especially for the younger generation who blogs and reblogs everything…and I do mean everything.

I’m one of those suckers and I would definitely reblog a GIF that was taken at a photo booth. These nifty little ‘video’ clips loop a few of the images from the booth to create a sort of flip book that’s just a few seconds long – and oh so adorable. It’s also great for spreading your social media footprint far and wide.

2. Personalise and Customise

© Digital Photo Innovations

If you’re opting for a photo booth, you may as well go the whole hog and personalise it with a custom wrap. This can be your company logo, an engagement picture, a monogram or even a pattern that fits with your décor. Once that’s done, all that’s left is setting up the booth with a special hashtag so you can programme the images to upload to Instagram and Facebook for everyone to enjoy.

3. Take Themes to a New Level

© Seaside Music Theatre

The Exhibitor recently shared a fascinating story of how Czarnowski Display Services Inc. gave attendees of the Healthcare Convention & Exhibitors Association an alternate view through its Unlearn & Reframe Theme. After sharing their

passions outside of work, each participant was invited to peruse a catalogue of stock art through a monitor and choose an image representative of those passions.

Using a special camera setting, these eye-catching images of forest scenes, underwater landscapes and cityscapes were superimposed on the attendee’s silhouette, creating a striking, unforgettable experience.

4. Opt for 3D Yes, that’s a real thing. In late 2012 Fast Co Design announced the world’s first 3D photobooth that creates a tiny version of you. Fast-forward four years and companies offering these services have popped up everywhere. From 3DMe Photobooth to Shapify to MiniMe3D, this crazy tech is ready to turn everyone into action figures.

Some of the scanners you can literally walk into, while The Hyperpod, for instance, is purposely engineered to capture 1.5 million-pixel, full-body scans in less than one minute. “I can definitely imagine the Hyperpod replacing local photo booths in the near future,” Tyler Koslow said in 3D Printing Industry in November last year, “and as our 3D scanning and printing capabilities become more accessible to the public and also more advanced in general, we may soon have a Hyperpod 3D Photo Booth at our nearest shopping mall.”

These eye-catching images of forest scenes, underwater landscapes and cityscapes were superimposed on the attendee’s silhouette.

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AN A-Z GUIDE TO PLANNING YOUR ASSOCIATION CONFERENCE Follow this step-by-step guide and make your conference shine. Compiled with wisdom from local experts, Kim Muller brings you part two in a two-part series.

From the tiniest corporate meeting to the largest trade exhibition, an event organiser’s reputation is always on the line. As the old adage goes, ‘you’re only as good as your last job’. This rings true for many facets of the working world. Here are some of the best practices we should always remember to incorporate when planning an association conference, trade exhibition or business event.

Negotiation In our budget-driven economic climate, one of the most important things an association event planner can use to their advantage is the art of negotiation. According to About Money, negotiation is a “critical factor in increasing ROI”, plus it allows you to make

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the most of your clients’ budgets. If you’re not a strong negotiator, it helps knowing beforehand what your ‘nice-to-have’ items are versus your must-haves – as well as what your budget allows. During the negotiations, minimize conflict to achieve

a win-win outcome, but be sure not to let anyone rush you into making decisions.

And effective negotiation strategy has clear communication at its core, and most event planners, venue owners and suppliers stress the significance of this point.

“To plan any successful conference you need a Conference Hotel that you can trust and a co-ordinator that is a One-Stop-Shop!

Both are to be found at Spier! We pride ourselves in offering a professional service where any organiser may rest assured that

a sustainable conference will be organised through offering a Conscious Conferencing experience. Our BBBEE status, and the fact that we recycle 100% of our water and 98% of our waste, all assist with our superior and friendly service,” she explains.

One-Stop-Shop

Over the last few years, one of the growing trends that have surfaced are companies, venues and suppliers who offer turnkey solutions. Trust is imperative when choosing who will join your team. Says Angela Lorimer, Commercial Manager at Spier Wine Farm:

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Partnerships Once you know you can trust the people you’re working with, it’s then time to build functional business relationships with them. When partnering with people, balance is incredibly important in holding these relationships together. “Strike an

even balance between the wants of the client and the deliverables of the providers, knowing that future relationships are based on how you execute this point with either side of the coin,” Miguel BennettoDos Santos, Director of Group Sales

at The Westin Cape Town, says.

Spier’s Lorimer agrees with his sentiments. “Ensure that you have a great working relationship with your suppliers so that flexibility may be maximised,” she advises.

the constantly changing climate in this industry, but it also stands you in good stead to acquire association event jobs. Institutions like the MICE Academy offer great courses for event

professionals, while tertiary degrees abound at universities. Associations like AAXO, SAACI and EXSA also offer regular workshops, training and insights, with the SAACI Academy launching recently.

an essential part of the process. Nonnie Kubeka, GM at Gauteng Tourism Authority, recently shared the rigorous activation process called delegate boosting. “People come from all over the world to watch tennis at Wimbledon or to see the World Cup. Remember people have not planned to come to this event.” She gave SAACI’s annual

conference as an example: “The way SAACI posted on Facebook, you felt like, ‘Oh, if I’m not at this particular conference, I’m going to miss out!’” Boosting registrations can also be done through intensive marketing campaigns through media interest, or in many other ways. And, as the next point illustrates, it’s always good to get your attendance up early!

ironed out with more gusto before the event begins. Here are Scan Display’s Justin Hawes’ top planning tips: • Ensure that you appoint an experienced PCO

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Qualifications It goes without saying these days that qualifications are imperative to any professional conference organiser’s portfolio. Not only does education in the sector further your knowledge of

Registration As we create more space in our lives for the digital element of conferencing, registration has become an ever-evolving aspect of the job. Not only is it imperative to have both online and paper registration options and before and during the event for possible walk-ins, but the why behind your conference persuading folks to attend has also become

Start Early ‘The early bird gets the worm’ has never been truer than in the conferencing world. Starting your planning early is always useful, and leaves room for possible last-minute issues to be

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Ensure experienced contractors are involved from the beginning of the project right through to its execution Start early – the earlier one starts planning the conference, the better

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Technology As times have changed so should your conference – use some different technologies so that your conference is more relevant, says SAACI CEO Adriaan Liebetrau. “Use technology

to your advantage; this includes mobile apps and audio visuals in terms of sounds and lighting to give your events a modern and innovative feel.”

Many conferencing apps and tech

options are available on the market, from custom designed event apps to make engagement and interaction more fun, to social walls, voting systems, video conferencing, and much more.

in this industry comes down to having a very ordered state of mind – but it helps when you always have a notebook and

phone handy. Knowing your checklist and contractors’ demands are also useful, as is your friendly demeanour in a sticky situation.

maybe use more money for this and cut back on imported, been-theredone-that items such as pens and notepads.” She gives Microsoft as an example, where the company took a strategic decision to spend their budget on upcycled bags and cut out other things they usually gave away.

“These upcycled billboard bags were trending on social media very shortly after they were handed out. This gave Microsoft far more marketing mileage than spreading their budget to include the same old same old items that are usually given away at conferences.”

Visitors should always stand to benefit from attending an association event, adds Craig Newman, Head of the Johannesburg Expo Centre. “Ensure that members are aware and understand the value of attending your event,” he explains, “For example, the UFI Congress

2017 will be a platform for those who would like to launch their businesses locally, to meet with big potential partners from the international arena.”

And please don’t forget that your event does not really end when you close the doors, says CSIR ICC’s Refilwe Nchebisang. “While communication with delegates is important throughout all phases of any conference with an association, post-event communication should be given special attention to ensure that delegates take value away from the conference,” she explains.

“The conference does not stop with the closing session. Sharing of information post-event and follow up virtual workshops and online chats ensure that the value of the conference exceeds just a few days for delegates who are otherwise normally not connected when arriving back at their place of work.”

planning decisions, but it also warns us not to ignore that feeling deep within our guts telling us how and what to do. Trusting your intuition is important, especially when

you’re stick in a situation that needs a fast solution. Gladwell’s book Blink is a wealth

Ubiquity As the official association conference planner, your job is to know all and be all to everyone around you. Being ubiquitous

Value Most conference organisers and associations would argue that adding value is one of the most important elements of hosting a successful event. And value can be added on almost every level of planning, from the sustainable to the partnerships, and the post-event hype.

Miguel Bennetto-Dos Santos, Director of Group of Sales at The Westin, stresses the importance of adding value from the ground up: “Partner up with service providers that share the same values as you do, after all they will be a reflection of your company.”

Antoinette McInnes of Eyako Green offers her own advice for the greening side of things: “Think wisely about the sustainable and added value angle of give-aways when allocating budget.

If a creative, unique, eco, locallymade bag is more expensive, then

Wisdom “There can be as much value in the blink of an eye as in months of rational analysis.”― Malcolm Gladwell This quote speaks about being wise in your

of information on how a tiny gut feeling can often be the right decision to make.

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Xenophobia Described as an unreasonable fear of what is perceived to be foreign or strange, xenophobia and its associates are something we should make every effort to avoid. A great example of this unreasonable fear is the recent Ebola outbreak in West Africa last year that saw the entire continent

doing damage control in a bad PR situation.

Misinformation or a lack of information is usually the root of this kind of problem, as well as a resistance to new experiences and peoples. As one of the sectors responsible for giving people often their first taste of Africa, we should be educating them.

We should be sharing our diverse and beautiful stories, we should be championing development and good relationships between neighbouring African states, and we should, of course, be accepting of all – religious, political, or simply those who are ‘different’ to our usual cup of tea.

Youth The youth – or people under the age of 35 working within the business events realm, are vital to the future of the sector. Much has and can be said about Generation Z, or Millennials, but here are a few recent facts that will blow your mind and make you rethink your event marketing strategies to this age group: • The Millennial generation is the biggest in US history – even bigger than the Baby Boom, coming in at 92 million.

• Millennials are turning to a new set of services that provide access to products without the burden of ownership. Says

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Jeremy Rifkin, author and economist: “25 years from now, car sharing will be the norm, and car ownership an anomaly.”

When marketing to Millennials, a strong brand isn’t enough to lock in a sale. Social responsibility and value are also high on the list.

When it comes to money, ‘experience’ trumps ‘things’. 78% of Millennials would choose to spend money on a desirable experience or event over buying something desirable. In fact, this is so intense that nearly 8 in 10 Millennials experience FOMO

– Fear Of Missing Out – especially since we live in a world where life experiences are broadcast across social media. 41% also struggle with information overload.

This simply shows us that we should be using our tools to more effectively engage with this market – and the subsequent Generation Z, who follow in their footsteps. For instance 72% of current high schoolers want their own businesses, and 76% hope they can turn their hobbies into careers, much in the entrepreneurial spirit of their predecessors.

Zoetic Zoetic is of Greek origins and means living, vital, and my personal favourite, animatedly existent. This is exactly what any event planner – association conference or other

– should embody. This profession requires flexibility, constant interaction with all kinds of people, creative problem solving, and a great amount of stress,

so someone who is lively, content, and tireless in their endeavours, is an ideal candidate to get the job done well (and they’ll be a pleasure to work with, too).

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MEGA EVENT VENUES

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hallmark of the modern lifestyle is the interest in of high-profile sporting and entertainment events. The Fédéreation Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) and the International Olympic Committee (IOC) are of the largest on the world stage, but live music and other sporting events have also grown exponentially. Today’s events need to cater for this voracious demand. We investigate what South Africa’s mega-event venues have to offer.

1. FNB Stadium It is the largest venue in South Africa, with a capacity of 94 736. Previously named Soccer City, its unique design conferred it the nicknames of “Calabash” or “African Pot”. World-renowned for a number of reasons, especially the opening and closing ceremonies of the FIFA World Cup 2010, Africa’s first. It hosts the Soweto derby between football giants Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates. It also hosts international rugby test clashes and big music superstars, including U2 and Lady Gaga.

Cape Town International Convention Centre

2. Cape Town Stadium Situated close to the Cape Town city centre and to the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, it has a capacity of 55 000. It hosted eight matches during the FIFA World Cup and hosts a variety of soccer and rugby events, as well as international music concerts. It’s also the home stadium to local Ajax Cape Town in the Premier Soccer League (PSL). The stadium hosted 72 000 U2 fans at their concert, held in 2011.

3. Moses Mabhida Stadium Officially opened in November 2009, this splendid stadium gives the Durban skyline an exceptional landmark boasting its “arch of triumph”, creating activities like the SkyCar or the 550 step walk to the top of its arch. With a capacity of 56 000, it also hosted seven FIFA World Cup matches and is a premier meetings venue. Due to diversified offering, it is a very well-utilised stadium.

Nelson Mandela Bay Tourism © Nelson Mandela Bay Tourism

4. Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium Situated in Port Elizabeth, it has capacity for 46 000. It has the ability to cater for events like conferences, business meetings and exhibitions as well as music festivals.

Large expos such as the Food & Wine Show and the Outdoor Expo have been held here.

It also hosted FIFA World Cup matches and still hosts Super Rugby games.

5. Mbombela Stadium Located in Mpumulanga, relatively close to the Kruger National Park, the stadium was built envisioning it as a place to remind spectators that they

were in Big 5 homeland. With a capacity of 43 500 and having hosted four FIFA World Cup matches, its defining feature is 18 orange giraffe columns that carry the roof structure and the black-andwhite zebra skin patterned seating.

6. Johannesburg Expo Centre It is the ideal venue for trade shows, concerts and large events as it has the largest, dedicated exhibition facilities in Africa. Its central location means that it is easily accessible, is secure and has ample parking space. It has at least 80 000m² of outdoor exhibition space

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and a multi-purpose arena able to accommodate up to 20 000 delegates.

Annual events include the largest consumer exhibition in the southern hemisphere, the Rand Show.

7. Ticketpro Dome With 15 000m2 exhibition space, the Ticketpro Dome, South Africa’s largest indoor venue is home to some of South Africa’s top consumer exhibitions. It has a seated capacity of 13 000 and 19 000 in a seating standing combination. It offers a platform for local and international music and entertainment acts to play to big audiences. The lower level floor space can be adapted to cater for wide-ranging types of exhibitions.

Previous artists featured were Diana Ross and Bryan Adams.

8. GrandWest Casino and Entertainment World GrandWest Casino and Entertainment World is able to accommodate lavish functions, exhibitions, and product launches. The Grand Arena has capacity to seat 5 000 people or 7 000 people standing. An addition to its offering is the new 2700m2 SunExhibits, with a capacity of 6 500 people. The latter

was the host of the King Tut Exhibition.

The conference area is clustered with a casino and other entertainment venues and offers a robust experience.

9. Durban Exhibition Centre and Durban International Convention Centre The Durban Exhibition Centre is situated opposite the Durban International Convention Centre. It is a multi-purpose exhibition and conference centre, with two halls offering a combined space of 9 600m2. The DICC is world-renowned, presenting different venue configurations due to moveable walls. When opened up to form one large venue, it can seat 5 000 delegates. Together, these venues are able to double the ICC capacity to accommodate 10 000 conference delegates. This is achieved by closing the brick-paved concourse between the two centres. It hosts concerts and shows, sports events, exhibitions, conferences and private functions.

10. Cape Town International Convention Centre Situated in the heart of Cape Town, the world-class and modern multi-purpose conference and exhibition centre has up to 10 000m2 of pristine exhibition space.

With 15 000m2 exhibition space, the Ticketpro Dome, South Africa’s largest indoor venue is home to some of South Africa’s top consumer exhibitions. It has a seated capacity of 13 000 and 19 000 in a seating standing combination.

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They are currently renovating and plan on unveiling in 2017, providing additional 10 000m2 of multi-purpose conference and exhibition space and 3 000m2 of formal and informal meeting space. The Cape Town International Jazz Festival is hosted there annually.

11. Gallagher Estate Located between Pretoria and Johannesburg, it is ideally positioned to service the Gauteng hub with an ability to host secure events such as the Pan-African Parliament meetings. The safe and tranquil estate equipped with exhibition venues offering 27 000m2 of exhibition space, is able to accommodate 7 000 convention delegates. There are five large exhibition halls for exhibitions, concerts and trade shows, as well as other smaller areas.

12. Sun City Superbowl With a capacity of 6 000 delegates, the Superbowl is the largest conference and entertainment area at Sun City.

It is renowned for hosting superstar performances, major international sporting events and exhibitions.

13. Royal Bafokeng Stadium Opened in 1999, it is the only communityowned football stadium in South Africa and has a capacity of 42 000. Six FIFA World Cup matches were played there. It serves as the home ground for the Premier Soccer League (PSL) team, the Platinum Stars. The stadium also regularly hosts rugby matches while the rugby team, the Leopards, utilise the stadium for big matches.

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EVENTS TO DIARISE

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FEBRUARY

MARCH

INVESTING IN MINING AFRICA INDABA 2016 8 - 11 CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA

CARDS AND PAYMENTS AFRICA 1-2 JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA

IBTM ARABIA 9 - 11 ABU DHABI, UAE

RETAIL WORLD AFRICA 1-2 JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA

AAXO LAUNCH AND TRAINING DAY 10 JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA

3RD ANNUAL REGIONAL SMART PROCUREMENT WORLD 1-3 CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA

AFRICA ENERGY INDABA 2016 16 - 17 JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA

THE BOOKMARKS 2016 3 JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA

AFRICABUILD 16 - 18 LAGOS, NIGERIA

IMC DURBAN 2016 14 - 15 DURBAN, SOUTH AFRICA

ECOMMERCE AFRICA CONFEX 17 - 18 CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA

ACE OF M.I.C.E. 16 - 18 ISTANBUL, TURKEY

DESIGN INDABA CONFERENCE 2016 17 - 19 CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA MEETINGS AFRICA 22 - 24 JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA ASIA-PACIFIC INCENTIVES AND MEETINGS EXPO (AIME) 23 - 24 MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA SIGN AFRICA DURBAN 24 - 25 DURBAN, SOUTH AFRICA AFRICA PRINT 24 - 25 DURBAN, SOUTH AFRICA CASH HANDLING SHOW AFRICA 2016 1-2 JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA FUTURE BANK AFRICA 1-2 JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA

APRIL INTERNATIONAL LUXURY TRAVEL MARKET AFRICA 4-6 CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA WORLD TRAVEL MARKET 6-8 CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA IT&CM CHINA + CTW CHINA 6-8 SHANGHAI, PEOPLE’S REPUBLIC OF CHINA

KENYA TRADE SHOW 15 - 17 NAIROBI, KENYA CAREER INDABA 16 - 17 JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA IMEX FRANKFURT 19 - 21 FRANKFURT, GERMANY A’SAMBENI AFRICA 26 - 30 BULAWAYO, ZIMBABWE ZIMBABWE INTERNATIONAL TRADE FAIR 26 - 30 BULAWAYO, ZIMBABWE

MAY INDABA 7-9 DURBAN, SOUTH AFRICA SIGN AFRICA CAPE TOWN 11 - 12 CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA AFRICA PRINT 11 - 12 CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA AFRICAN UTILITY WEEK AND CLEAN POWER AFRICA 17 - 19 CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA CHINA TRADE WEEK 18 - 20 DURBAN, SOUTH AFRICA

SIGN AFRICA POLOKWANE 7 POLOKWANE, SOUTH AFRICA

SECUREX 2016 24 - 26 JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA

AFRICA PRINT 7 POLOKWANE, SOUTH AFRICA

A-OSH EXPO 24 - 26 JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA

INTERNATIONAL FRANCHISE EXPO 8 - 10 JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA

AUTOMECHANIKA 31 - 3 JUNE JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA

ITB BERLIN 9 - 13 BERLIN, GERMANY

EVENTS TO DIARISE

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JULY

SAACI CONGRESS 5-7 MANGAUNG, SOUTH AFRICA

MARKEX 2016 6 - 7 JULY JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA

ATF INTERNATIONAL APPAREL, TEXTILE AND FOOTWARE TRADE EVENT 7-9 CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA

THE MONEY EXPO 2016 8-9 JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA

AUTOEXPO AFRICA 2016 10 - 12 NAIROBI, KENYA OIL & GAS AFRICA – EAST AFRICA 10 - 12 NAIROBI, KENYA NIGERIA OIL & GAS CONFERENCE & EXHIBITION 13 - 16 ABUJA, NIGERIA IBTM AMERICA 15 - 17 NASHVILLE, USA KENYA INTERNATIONAL TRADE EXHIBITION 16 - 18 NAIROBI, KENYA AFRICA’S BIG SEVEN 2016 19 - 21 JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA RETAIL SOLUTIONS AFRICA 2016 19 - 21 JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA AFRICA RAIL 28 - 29 JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA SABC EDUCATION AFRICAN EDUWEEK 2016 29 - 30 JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA SIGN AFRICA NELSPRUIT 29 NELSPRUIT, SOUTH AFRICA AFRICA PRINT- NELSPRUIT 29 NELSPRUIT, SOUTH AFRICA

POWER-GEN AFRICA 19 - 21 JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA OIL & GAS AFRICA 13 - 15 CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA

AUGUST FUN & BIZ AFRICA 5-7 JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA 100% DESIGN SOUTH AFRICA 5-9 JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA INTERBUILD AFRICA 2016 17 - 20 JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA THE COMMERCIAL UAV SHOW AFRICA 2016 23 - 24 JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA

SEPTEMBER EYE FOCUS AFRICA 6-8 JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA IBTM CHINA 7-8 BEIJING, PEOPLE’S REPUBLIC OF CHINA IBTM LATIN AMERICA 7-8 CIUDAD DE MEXICO, MEXICO SIGN AFRICA & FESPA AFRICA 7-9 JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA

BUSINESS ENTREPRENEURSHIP & FRANCHISE EXPO 8 - 11 JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA ELECTRA MINING AFRICA 12 - 16 JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA FOOD & DRINK TECHNOLOGY AFRICA 2016 14 - 15 JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA

OCTOBER THE DIGITAL EDUCATION SHOW AFRICA 4-5 JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA AFRICA AIR EXPO 12 - 14 ACCRA, GHANA IMEX AMERICA 18 - 20 LAS VEGAS, USA AFRICA OIL WEEK/ AFRICA UPSTREAM CONFERENCE 31 - 4 NOVEMBER CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA

NOVEMBER WATER AFRICA AND WEST AFRICA BUILDING AND CONSTRUCTION NIGERIA 2016 8 - 10 ABUJA, NIGERIA 55TH ICCA CONGRESS 13 - 16 KUCHING, MALAYSIA 12TH TANZANIA TRADE SHOW 2016 24 - 27 DAR ES SALAAM, TANZANIA EIBTM 29 NOV - 1 DEC BARCELONA, SPAIN

©Sebastian Unrau

JUNE

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ASSOCIATIONS

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SAACI

EXSA 2016 CONFERENCE

SAACI is the umbrella body of the business-events industry in Southern Africa, dedicated to efficiency and professionalism in the industry since 1987.

The Conference scheduled for 31 January to 2 February 2016 will commence with a farm style lunch in the grounds of Spier followed by speed networking, which organisers hope will bolster efforts for delegates to get to know each other. The theme is “Engage your senses”.

The patron members will also be welcomed at the conference.

The headline speakers are Guy Lundy, a qualified futurist and experienced scenario planner with a Masters in Futures Studies.

Chris Moerdyk is the former head of strategic planning and Public Affairs for BMW, South Africa. He is a top marketing thought leader and influential in the SA advertising industry. Other speakers on the lineup are Fred Road, Steve Evans, Dylan Kohlstadt and Barry O’ Mahoney,

The work we do is guided by four key principles: 1. SAACI Community – where we interact with our members and stakeholders.

2. SAACI Intelligence – where we gather and publish information that helps our members to grow their business.

3. SAACI Academy – where we professionalise the industry through certification, education and training.

4. SAACI Into Africa – where we expand our network into all South African provinces and all Southern African Countries.

Four key tributary pillars support them: 5. Branding and Communication – where we communicate innovatively and grow the SAACI brand.

6. Stakeholder Engagement - where we keep everyone with a stake in the industry informed and involved.

7. Sustainability – where we provide guidance for ‘sustainable best practice’, both in terms of business and the enviroment in which we operate.

8. Future Focus – where we encourage and support industry members younger then 35.

With nearly 30 years of being your partner in the business events industry, we have a great track record of 1500 individual, corporate and patron members representing all sectors.

ICCA NOW HAS 1 000 IN MEMBERSHIP Established in 1963, sharing information about international association meetings for business advantage, ICCA has grown from the seven founders to 1 000 organisations and companies in membership in 90 countries.

In 1972, they had a reach of 160 members in 41 countries; by 1982 it was 69 countries with 450 members. In 1992 they had 600 members and in 2012, 900 members.

8 JUNE 2016 ANNOUNCED AS “GLOBAL EXHIBITIONS DAY”

BY UFI AND IAEE There is a global initiative driven by exhibition organisers, venues, associations, and service providers worldwide to stage the first ever “Global Exhibitions Day” on 8 June 2016. South Africa’s EXSA and AAXO are both members of the task force. This event will be truly global at the outset, but the intention is for continual development.

Two major industry stalwarts, UFI – The Global Association of the Exhibition Industry and UFI – The Global Association of the Exhibition Industry originated the concept.

The campaign’s two-fold purpose is firstly to promote the value of exhibiting for companies as well as in various other spheres like trade and nationalisation. Secondly, it is meant to be a celebration of the people working in the exhibitions industry showcasing career opportunities.

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Paul Woodward, UFI Managing Director, had vacated the position after 5½ years and his successor is Kai Hattendorf. He is confident that he will hand over the reins of a strong association representing a robust industry; with UFI continuing to help the industry understand and define a new future.

Six key themes emerged during his tenure: globalisation, blurring of boundaries between different event disciplines, a focus on quality and professionalism, a concern for the next generation of employees and customers, the need for better promotion and communication of the industry and importantly, the impact of digitalisation on business.

He leaves at a time when he considers the exhibition industry to be healthy and research suggests most parts of the world are better positioned post-2008 recession; even Europe is displaying growth.

He said sustainability remains a key challenge for the industry.

As always, opportunity will be balanced by challenges including technology enhancement, slower world growth and political upheaval.

He said that security remains an important consideration.

UFI GLOBAL EXHIBITION BAROMETER FOR 2015 / 2016 The organisation has regularly assessed the impact of the economic downturn since 2009. Its basis is the perceptions of UFI members worldwide. For the current statistics, 201 members in 55 countries responded, which is representative of the situation worldwide.

Major results to be noted are as follows: When asked about their perception on the economic crisis, around half of respondents from all regions stated that the impact of the ‘economic crisis’ on their exhibition business is now over. For around 2 to 3 companies out of 10 in all regions, the crisis will be over in 2016.

On the topic of the most important business issues, respondents were asked to identify the top three for their business for the year ahead.

The results were stable in all surveys, with 80% of all answers relating to four issues, i.e.: • State of the national / regional economy – 25% • Internal management challenges – 19% • Local / national competition from the exhibition industry – 18% • Global economic uncertainty – 16%

South African companies were responsible for 15 detailed responses with results as follows: When asked to comment on the economic crisis; 35% said that the impact of the crisis was now over, 25% still expected some impact in the year ahead and 40% said they still expected its impact in 2017 and beyond.

The top three issues for the South Africans were: 1. State of the national / regional economy, (32%) 2. Local / national competition from the exhibition industry, and (21%) 3. Global economic uncertainty (18%).

When asked about expectations of turnover change when compared to the same period the year before, respondents reported a 57% increase.

©Larry Chen

PAUL WOODWARD BIDS FAREWELL AS UFI MANAGING DIRECTOR

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DIRECTORY OF ADVERTISERS

ADVERTISERS AAXO PAGE 22 T. +27 11 549 8300 E. cindy@thebereed.co.za W. www.ThebeReed.co.za

Markex PAGE 35 T. +27 10 003 3060 E. leighm@specialised.com W. www.markex.co.za

ACE OF MICE PAGE 28 T. +90 216 465 95 56 / 57 E. info@ameistanbul.com W. www.ameistanbul.com

Protea Hotel Stellenbosch PAGE 20 T. +27 21 880 9500 E. banquetm@phstellenbosch.com W. www.proteahotels.com/stellenbosch

Bidvest Van Rental PAGE 15 T. +27 21 510 8602 E. garydv@bidvestvanrental.co.za W. www.bidvestcarrental.co.za

Resource Design PAGE 05 T. +27 21 510 7776 E. karen@resourcedesign.co.za W. www.resourcedesign.co.za

ConCept G Exhibitions & Events PAGE 08-09 T. +27 86 122 2678 E. info@conceptg.co.za W. www.conceptg.co.za

SAACI PAGE 33, 38 T. +27 41 374 5654 E. info@saaci.org W. www.saaci.org

Crystal Events PAGE 20 T. +27 21 555 3617 E. tes@crystalevents.co.za W. www.crystalevents.co.za

South Africa National Convention Bureau PAGE 23 - 27 T. +27 11 895 3000 E. convention@southafrica.net W. www.businessevents.southafrica.net

Event Planner’s Guide to Africa 2016 INSIDE BACK COVER T. +27 21 674 0646 E. juan-mari@filmeventmedia.co.za W. www.theevent.co.za

Sandton Convention Centre OUTSIDE FRONT COVER, 04 T. +27 11 779 0000 E. scc.info@tsogosun.com W. www.saconvention.co.za

Exhibition Freighting G.S.M PAGE 20 T. +27 21 552 7248 E. ef-gsm@iafrica.com W. www.ef-gsm.co.za

Setbuild PAGE 21 T. +27 11 452 1808 E. marketing@setbuild.co.za W. www.setbuild.co.za

Expo Centre INSIDE FRONT COVER T. +27 11 494 1920 E. info@expocentre.co.za W. www.expocentre.co.za

Tshwane Events Centre OUTSIDE BACK COVER T. +27 12 327 1487 E. ricky@tshwabac.co.za W. www.tshwane-events.co.za

EXSA PAGE 38 T. +27 11 805 7272 E. exsa@exsa.co.za W. www.exsa.co.za

Urban Tonic PAGE 21 T. +27 21 713 4439 E. info@urbantonic.co.za W. www.urbantonic.co.za

Folio Translate PAGE 17 T. +27 21 426 2727 E. pziets@folio-online.co.za W. www.folio-online.co.za

USB PAGE 21 T. +27 11 465 4410 E. paul@uniquespeakerbureau.com W. www.uniquespeakerbureau.com

Gauteng Tourism Authority PAGE 07 T. +27 11 085 2500 E. info@gauteng.net W. www.gauteng.net

World Travel Market PAGE 03 T. +27 11 549 8300 E. chardonnay@thebereed.co.za W. www.ThebeReed.co.za

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CONTACTS Cover Image: Courtesy of Sandton Convention Centre Publisher: Lance Gibbons lance@filmeventmedia.co.za Executive Editor: Katie Reynolds-Da Silva katie@filmeventmedia.co.za Head of Design: Sheree Steenkamp sheree@filmeventmedia.co.za Writer: Kim Muller kim@filmeventmedia.co.za Assistant Designer / Illustrator: Lauren Smith lauren@filmeventmedia.co.za Editorial Assistant: Imogen Campbell info@filmeventmedia.co.za Brand Manager: Rhoda Farrant rhoda@filmeventmedia.co.za Production and Traffic Manager: Nazeera Hartley Roach nazeera@filmeventmedia.co.za Production and Traffic Co-ordinator: Basheera Hartley bash@filmeventmedia.co.za 57 2nd Avenue, Harfield Village, Claremont 7708, Cape Town, South Africa Tel: +27 21 674 0646

JOIN US www.filmeventmedia.co.za www.theevent.co.za DISCLAIMER: Opinions expressed in The Event do not necessarily represent the official viewpoint of the editor or the publisher, while inclusion of adverts/ advertising features does not imply endorsement of any business, product or service. Copyright of this material is reserved. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this publication, The Event and/or its employees may not be held liable or responsible for any act or ommission committed by any person, including a juristic person, referred to in this publication. It and they furthermore accept(s) no responsibility for any liability arising out of any reliance that a reader of this publication places on the contents of this publication.

LAUNCHING AT MEETINGS AFRICA 2016 THE PREMIER MARKETING TOOL FOR

AFRICA’S BUSINESS-EVENTS INDUSTRY Now in its 4th year, The Event Planner’s Guide to Africa has reached over 15 000 clients through its print publication and 410 000 through the e-books. Distributed in collaboration with the SANCB to Event Organisers, PCOs, Exhibition Organisers, Incentive Travel Houses, Corporate Clients and Government Offices; and to 600 International African Associations and through the following Media Partnerships: Meetings Africa (2016 Launch) | International Meetings Review | ibtm world | EXSA Conference and AGM | ibtm arabia | IMEX America | IMEX Frankfurt | IT&CM Asia Pacific | IT&CM India | IT&CMA China | Loeries Creative Week | Markex – World of Events | SAACI Congress | SETE - Sports and Tourism Exchange | SITE - Swahili International Tourism Expo | Tourism Expo Botswana | WTM Africa | Zambia International Travel Expo

CONTACT JUAN-MARI: 021 674 0646 juan-mari@filmeventmedia.co.za