The Event Issue 8

ISSUE 08 | 2015

+ Your GAUTRAIN: FEATURED SUPPLEMENT Conference Solution + LOERIES: BATTLE OF THE CREATIVES Advertising Heavyweights Compete for Top Prize

+ SA ABROAD We Catch Up with our Event Expats

CONTENTS | 01

www.theevent.co.za

02. CEO Forum: Koo Govender on the Evolution of Meetings

04. SAACI AGM 2015 Report 06. Tech Talk: 360 Views Make o

Waves in Cape Town

07. Featured DMC: Crystal Events 08. SA Conference Experts Abroad 12. Craig Newman on Industry Fragmentation

13. Conferencing and Exhibitions: Budgets, Labour and Logistics

SOUTH AFRICANS ABROAD

GAUTRAIN SPECIAL FEATURE

The Event interviews the South Africans who took their skills to foreign conferencing markets.

The Gautrain is an integral part of business events in Gauteng. See page 15 for a special supplement.

15. Gautrain: Your Conference Solution

24. Spotlight on Corporate Meeting Venues

26. Loeries: Why the Business Events Industry Should Take Notice

28. African Airline Update: Let’s Start Moving with the Times

30. Free State: Emerging in Business Events

LOERIES 2015

AVIATION UPDATE

Top creatives in Africa and the Middle East battle for the top prizes.

Kim Muller unpacks the latest trends and updates in Africa’s airline sector.

32. Events to Diarise 34. Associations 35. Event Greening Forum: No Need to Waste

36. Directory of Advertisers

02 | SPOTLIGHT

www.theevent.co.za

CEO FORUM

KOO GOVENDER

on the Evolution of Meetings

objectives of your business are and how they can align themselves to that plan. With the evolution of technology, companies have intranet and effective instant real-time chats, giving staff the opportunity of working virtually and being in touch with the pulse of the organization whether they’re in a meeting room or not.

Koo Govender

How has the structure of meetings evolved since your career began?

Meetings have evolved through my 24 years of being in a corporate environment. In the past, meeting structure was limited to the designated meeting room. Over the years we have become much more technologically advanced. From meeting requests popping up on smartphones to reminders and FaceTiming into meetings from your car (when stationary), the progress in communication is evident.

Telecommunication has exploded onto the corporate scene and distance across the globe is no longer a barrier. We now can Skype, teleconference and video conference into meetings from multiple time zones and locations.

How do businesses communicate to their staff?

Communication is the core of every business interaction. Sharing the vision, mission, objectives and value statements of your company assists in reminding the staff on what the core

What is the best way to run an effective meeting?

A meeting should be scheduled in diaries when the majority of the parties concerned are available, and should always start on time. Without an agenda and a chairperson to facilitate the meeting objectives and outcomes, a meeting has no structure. Minutes and necessary reading material should be distributed before time to avoid delays in the meeting.

Which is your favourite meeting venue and why?

I love meeting at Tasha’s, I’m inspired by the vibe there. Being surrounded by people and a different energy is a great change of scenery. From the scent of the deli, the decor and the set up, it creates a open thinking space which is a refreshing change from the boardroom.

Which is your favourite conference venue? Why? I’m from KZN and I love being near the ocean. My favourite conference space is the Oyster Box in Umhlanga – the crashing of the waves keeps me calm and serene before I have to present or do a talk, and the view of the lighthouse reminds me of the light I have to share to inspire and motivate people – which is essentially what we try our best to deliver as a business that is strong in conferencing.

How do you think people should do meetings differently?

It would be great to have meetings standing. People will think on their feet…

No pun intended.

What are common time wasting practices that you would ban tomorrow?

Bringing your laptop, tablet or cellphones into meetings can distract and cause delays. I believe these devices stunt creativity or innovation when a brainstorming setup is crucial. They can be used as references of research but they would need to be monitored by the chair of the meeting to avoid the device becoming a distraction.

What technology are you aware of that you believe will change the way we conduct conferences in the next 10 years?

Mobile event apps are revolutionising the way conferences are experienced by attendees.

The modern conference-goer hungers for easily-accessible and quicklydigestible content, and the smartphone provides the perfect platform to deliver just that.

We live in the age of the social network, and the conference app that VWV offers includes a private social platform, allowing users to share their entire experience as they would on a regular social network. This, along with registration and logistics integration, and a robust and flexible content delivery platform, complete the digital tool, which is integral in every experience going forward.

The conference app not only engages and empowers the attendee like never before, but also allows the organizers to learn more about their event in a way that was previously impossible, using data and analytics collected throughout the experience.

At the end of the day, any experience is built for its target audience, and using insights about that audience to tailor the event will result in a more impactful experience for the attendee and achieved objectives for the client.

04 | NEWS

www.theevent.co.za

Convention Centres and their role in SA’s future economic success.

A

t a time of financial prudence and budget frugality, the challenge is for the MICE industry to ensure that the contribution that conferences achieve in their respective societies and economies are understood and appreciated.

Conferencing in a country like South Africa, with our unsurpassed natural beauty, golf courses and luxury hotels, can easily be seen to fall solely into the leisure category. That’s why it is essential that policy makers understand the tangible economic benefits and specialist knowledge that the industry generates.

South Africa is well known for its mineral and agricultural resources. What is less known – yet obvious – is that we are perfectly suited as a destination for conferencing. Durban, Sandton and Cape Town have world-class infrastructure and conferencing facilities that can comfortably compete with venues around the world.

Central to the CTICC’s success has been

its focus on the development of the knowledge economy. Of the nearly 5 000 events hosted by the CTICC over the past 12 years, more than 450 were international conferences across a broad spectrum of sectors, including agroprocessing, the green economy, ICT, property, mining and medical industries. These are all sectors that align closely to the City of Cape Town and the Western Cape Government’s economic growth strategies. By attracting global associations to the city for these events, the CTICC is making a vital contribution towards growing the city’s expertise, knowledge and skills in all these areas.

Future global economic growth is increasingly reliant on intellectual capital.

Consequently, the MICE sector has a serious role to play as a key driver of knowledge sharing and intellectual growth in South Africa. To make these important contributions sustainable, the CTICC must remain internationally competitive.

Our expansion will raise the global competitiveness of Cape Town as a premier world-class meetings and events destination.

This in turn allows us to meet the City’s Integrated Development Plan’s objective of establishing Cape Town as Africa’s business events destination. In short, the expansion will double the centre’s existing capacity by adding 10 000m² of multi-purpose conference and exhibition space and nearly 3 000m² of meeting space.

There can be no doubt that this industry will be an important part of the future economic success of South Africa. It is for this reason that the CTICC will continue to provide innovative and creative spaces which encourage the exchange of knowledge.

SAACI AGM 2015

A

“

t last year’s AGM in St Lucia I delivered the state of the association report, and I identified 11 projects that we would focus on at Head Office and am happy to report that seven projects were successfully completed, two are ongoing and we will commence work on the last two in September”, Adriaan stated.

The seven completed projects are: 1. Effectively role out our business plan at branch level.

• SAACI restructured its branches and its boards of directors, held think tanks in all branches and recently appointed a new advisory board that will see the completion of the business plan over the next two years.

2. Update all membership documents and representative information.

3. Invest in a fully functional website.

Highlights of the new system include: • Advertising spaces for members • Job section for members to post vacancies • An easier search field • We plan to add a tender section and launch

our online store with gamification of the site before the end of the year 4. Ensure better collaboration between other associations i.e. EXSA, EGF, IFEA, SITE and TPSA. 5. Educate our members on what our association does.

6. Re-launch our social media platforms into one account on each platform 7. Introduce the hall of honour, which has accepted three people thus far. Another six members will be inducted at the extravaganza evening this year.

The 2015 SAACI Congress will be different in the following ways: • Four host venues, each to give a unique taste and flavor to the programme.

• A new member’s induction programme and one hour dedicated one-on-one supplier and buyer networking.

• A high level PCO focused panel on what’s happening in the sector in South Africa, followed by an interactive feedback session.

• Nine hot topics and eight solutions sessions

Report by SAACI CEO Adriaan Liebetrau

with phenomenal speakers.

• A dedicated Tech stream, as part of the congress programme will ensure delegates can gain first hand experiences of how the latest gadget, software or product works.

• The first ever ‘Out of the Ordinary’ sessions is 14 unique experiences all aimed to help you either add a new skill or broaden your horizon.

Adriaan concluded his presentation by stating: “Thank you to each one of you for your dedication and commitment to SAACI and for being an ambassador of our association. We ask our committee members and other volunteers to dedicate only 30 minutes a month to actively work on SAACI matters to help us achieve our business goals and many people give a lot more each month and each week. For this we are truly grateful and wish we could do something more in return than just giving you recognition but know that it does not go unnoticed and that your contribution is making a difference not just in your local branch, in SAACI at large but also to the general well-being and growth of the business events sector.”

GL EVENTS SOUTH AFRICA | 05

www.theevent.co.za

GL events Oasys becomes

GL EVENTS SOUTH AFRICA I

t is with great pleasure that GL events Oasys would like to officially announce our change of name to GL events South Africa.

As part of the GL events Group, we are very pleased to integrate fully into the world renowned GL events – specializing in quality, service and values that the company is world famous for.

GL events is one of the major leading global events companies offering the complete solution to all of your event and exhibition needs. With references such as The FIFA World Cup in Rio de Janeiro, The London 2012 Olympics, and the complete Formula E world tour 2015, to name but a few.

GL events is a provider of integrated solutions and services for events to include: • Congress and Conventions • Cultural, Sporting and Political Events • Trade fairs, and exhibitions for professionals and the general public

FIFA World Cup Brazil 2014

We offer turnkey solutions to all of your event needs, including: • Design • Creation • Project management • General installation • Heating and air conditioning • Electrical distribution • Audio visual solutions • Shop fitting • Translation solutions • Stands • Signage • Furniture • Hostesses With 91 international locations spanning over five continents, you can be sure that GL events South Africa has become part of the market leaders in event solutions with a wealth of knowledge and expertise. So when you plan your next event, be sure to contact GL events South Africa, the world leaders in events and exhibitions.

Transport Show, France

Jo Londres 2012

All images courtesy of GL Events South Africa

Six Nations BMW Guinness Twickenham March

06 | TECH TALK WITH KIM

www.theevent.co.za

STUNNING 360 VIEWS O

Make Waves in Cape Town All images © Cape Town in 360 / Fancam

“

“

The Lions Head image is slated to be a million pixels wide, and with it, Fancam hopes to break records. It’s meant to be the biggest picture in history. You can sign up on the website to be notified when it goes live.

A

website recently surfaced that left Cape Town inhabitats – and others from further afield – in utter awe.

Cape Town in 360 is the brain child of Fancam, the global leader in gigapixel event photography. Their expertise has taken them around the world, to events like the Super Bowl and the UEFA Champions League, and their latest conquest was, you guessed it, the Mother City.

“This is the start of an exciting project where we will create and share similar images of beautiful places in and around Cape Town, as well as something for the record books,” Fancan wrote on the website, www.capetown.in3sixty.com.

The site has two views to explore so far –

Devil’s Peak and City Centre, with Lions Head soon to be released. The Devil’s Peak image was captured in 2013 and includes views of the City Bowl, Blouberg, Muizenburg and Gordon’s Bay. It’s a whopping 600,000 pixels wide – the equivalent of five rugby fields – so if you zoom in, you’ll be able to see the traffic chugging away, detailed to perfection.

The City Centre view was taken in early 2015 and is 200,000 pixels wide. It was done as a test for a larger project in Tokyo. The image allows you to look inside the Castle of Good Hope and explore the Vredehoek and Oranjezight neighbouhoods in finer detail.

The Lions Head image is slated to be a million pixels wide, and with it, Fancam hopes to break records. It’s meant to be the biggest

picture in history. You can sign up on the website to be notified when it goes live.

This kind of technology opens up an entirely new perspective for tourism and business travel. Potential delegates can visualise their event’s host city, gaining insight on what to expect on arrival. It’s also a great marketer of stunning locations, which could be perfect for boosting tourism to a country. Cape Town, of course, is an ideal city to begin this fascinating experiment. Not only is it one of the most picturesque cities in the world, but it has also been excelling in the business events arena in recent years. Here’s to even more exciting urban views in the future – which city would you like to see next?

SPOTLIGHT | 07

www.theevent.co.za

Spotlight on

TES PROOS The Event: What was your initial vision for Crystal Events?

Tes Proos: Initially we were purely an events company, but over time, I received amazing referrals and ended up right back into being a DMC, which is a great passion!

The Event: How has Crystal Events’ product offering evolved over the years? And how does this evolution tie in to the changing needs of your market?

Proos: It’s been interesting times. Since 2008, incentive travel has been turned on its head. Clients shop more keenly and loyalty has (sort of ) gone out the window.

It now boils down to bottom line but more so, personal relationships. Groups are smaller – a lot smaller – and require much more personal attention. Our business keep evolving, so it is important for us to have a finger on the pulse to sense the changes before they happen and plan accordingly.

The Event: What are the challenges facing DMC’s in South Africa?

CRYSTAL PARK INNEVENTS

BY RADISSON & INCENTIVES Crystalup Warm Events this winter and Incentives with a state are all of the art Full Day about creating Conference uniquePackage experiences, from R295 from per person atconferences international Park Inn by to Radisson corporate Cape Town Newlands. incentive programmes.

Including Withhigh more speed than 25 reliable years in Wi-Fi, travel and writecorporate on chalk hospitality, board walls, standard Team Crystal AV equipment, endeavours two to fully smart explore tea breaks, each client’s lunchrequirements with smart food and and ensure parking. the Experience proposal meets the fiboth rst next client generation budget and conference facilities personal taste.inThe South teamAfrica. is creative and makes every effort to come up with new t: +27 and innovative 21 822 6500 programmes. t: 86 662 7792 e:+27 info.newlands.capetown@ rezidorparkinn.com e: tes@crystalevents.co.za parkinn.com/hotel-capetown-newlands www.crystalevents.co.za

Proos: We have several challenges facing inbound incentive travel. New visa restrictions and birth certificate issues for minors have crippled inbound business for many operators – although, (for now) mostly from Far East markets. Our local currency has weakened drastically, which works in our favour but everything else has become more expensive.

The Event: What is your most memorable client experience?

Proos: I am fortunate to have had several wonderful groups over the years. Most recently, I arranged for a rhino darting and tagging experience for a small group in the Pilanesberg game reserve. It was the closest the delegates may ever get to a rhino in their lives and the experience was mind-blowing and life-changing.

The Event: Which experience over the years are you most proud of ?

Proos: Having the opportunity of making a difference in young lives. We try to include

“

Last year, we won the Site Crystal Award for best overall programme for an event in Zambia, during which we included a wonderful CSR project with a local orphanage.

“

Tes Proos, CEO of Crystal Events, chats to The Event about the challenges facing South Africa’s DMCs in 2015, and shares her successes.

as many CSR projects in our programmes as possible. Last year, we won the Site Crystal Award for best over-all programme for an event in Zambia, during which we included a wonderful CSR project with a local orphanage. The group got their hands properly dirty, painting and decorating a new classroom (sponsored by them) and building new sports grounds.

08 | FEATURE

www.theevent.co.za

“

Kuala Lumpur also leapfrogged Asia-Pacific and Middle East counterparts Bangkok, Shanghai and Dubai to improve on her regional city ranking by two positions, to seventh place.

“

Alan Pryor, General Manager, Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre

South African

CONFERENCING EXPERTS AROUND THE WORLD The Event catches up with the industry’s best South African exports.

The Event: How did you build your business events journey and what prompted you to take your skills abroad?

Alan Pryor - Kuala Lumpur: I began my business tourism journey with Durban ICC, where I spent 10 ½ years as Director of Operations. In addition, before moving to Malaysia, I was lead consultant of the Architectural Department of the Municipality of Durban City on its Priority Zone development which included the Durban ICC and Arena. The chance to join the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, Malaysia’s premier and most technologically-advanced facility, as Deputy General Manager was a great career opportunity for me and too good to pass up.

Aage Hansen - Malaysia: Through a number of avenues within the Hospitality Industry spanning over 21 years predominantly within the hotel sector.

Working at South Africa’s premier hotels and resorts specializing in the food and beverage division. Finally having spent the past nine years at the CTICC in the

capacity of General Manager Operations and Food and Beverage. I wanted to be part of an International organisation like Deutsche Messe and to be able to manage and operate and be part of a venue of the capacity offered by the Indonesian Convention and Exhibition Centre. It’s important to get a level of understanding and exposure to the International market and to be exposed to international trends and different operating procedures. I also wanted to play an active role in opening an international convention centre and get a level of understanding of the South East Asia MICE market.

Mike Lord - Nigeria: I started in the venue management business in 1998 with the conference facilities at the CocaCola dome, although a multi-purpose entertainment venue, we had conference facilities alongside the venue. We made a decision seven years ago that we felt that the South African market had become saturated and that all the large venues that needing building bar one or two had been

built and it was a natural progression to get involved in infrastructure projects around international convention centre’s elsewhere in Africa. As Africa by and large is behind the infrastructure build curve, we are well placed to consult and develop ICC developments in Africa. Every capital and major city in Africa to be a business tourism driver which is critical to growth in every region. I believe my skills and abilities and experiences have placed me in a unique situation to make a difference in Africa and pioneer the growth of ICC development’s in Africa and beyond.

Adele Eloff - Nigeria: My first encounter with conferences and events were when I worked for the Shoprite Group of Companies, there I managed their Incentive and HIV/Aids programme, which were heavily driven through events to create awareness within the Group.

Thereafter I was offered a position at Spintelligent as their Events Operations Manager and was mentored by their previous Managing Director Devi Paulsen-

FEATURE | 09

www.theevent.co.za

Aage Hansen, Managing Director, Indonesia Convention Exhibition Centre Exhibition Centre

Abbott, whom have phenomenal insight in the business-to-business conferencing and exhibition industry.

My convention centre experience I only recently started to gain, as of January this year I joined the Calabar International Convention Centre. There I worked alongside the CEO Mr Paul D’Arcy who is the convention centre guru of the world. These last six months has been a huge learning curve not only adapting to living in Nigeria, but also learning how to manage and operate a convention centre with international standards. Managing conference and exhibitions outside of the SA borders need a special kind of skills, which one will only learn through adapting to each country’s culture while embracing it and understanding how to do business in those countries. Each country comes with a different set of rules and if one are willing to work within those boundaries, it makes working here very rewarding.

Irette Ferreira - Abu Dhabi: As part of my Tourism Management Degree I had to work/intern for six months and applied

to work at CTICC. This internship turned out to be one of the best career choices I made as I was offered a job at the end and started working in the Event Coordination team and later the International Sales team at CTICC. Through my job I got involved in SAACI and EXSA where I learned a lot about different parts of the industry, but ultimately my conference experience started and developed through the colleagues, clients and partners I worked with while at CTICC. I worked with colleagues that had been in the industry for as long as I was alive at the time - I could not have asked for better mentors to kick-start my career!

My husband and I really enjoy travelling and wanted to see the world and gain some international experience while doing so. I put my feelers out to some international contacts and within three months we packed up and started our first stint in the Middle East in Doha where I worked as Sales Manager for International Conferences at the Qatar National Convention Centre.

Alec Gilbert - Adelaide: Like many people in the industry I got involved

“

“

It’s important to get a level of understanding and exposure to the international market and to be exposed to international trends.

almost by accident. As the Director of Urban Development for Durban I drafted the initial report outlining the need for a purpose-built convention centre. As momentum developed I became more and more involved in its design and construction and eventually the marketing of the centre before it had opened. At the time the international convention business was a whole new industry for South Africa and I had the unique opportunity to be at the forefront of it. I learned a huge amount about it by attending international trade shows, working with international consultants and getting actively involved in organisations like SAACI and ICCA serving on both boards for many years. We also had a fabulous team at ICC Durban and we learnt a lot from each other - there was no precedent to follow in the country and we simply had to make things work.

The fact that so many have been recruited abroad bears testimony to their calibre.

It was time to move on and take on a new challenge. At international events I found myself spending more and more

10 | FEATURE

www.theevent.co.za

“

“

I believe my skills and abilities and experiences have placed me in a unique situation to make a difference in Africa.

Mike Lord, Managing Director of Alliance Management Services

“

“

Managing conference and exhibitions outside of the SA borders need special kinds of skills, which one will only learn through adapting to each country’s culture.

time with my Australian counterparts so when the Adelaide opportunity came up I grabbed it with both hands. Similar lifestyle, great colleagues, new country, new challenge! Having said that it was tough leaving Durban and South Africa.

The Event: What is your current role?

Pryor: I am General Manager of the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre. I’m also on the board of the Malaysia Convention & Exhibition Bureau (MyCEB) and sit in the NKEA Lab (National Key Economic Area) working committee for Business Events.

Hansen: Managing Director. I successfully opened the largest Exhibition Convention Centre in Indonesia and ensure the property becomes a venue of choice within the region.

Lord: Currently I am the Managing Director of the Alliance Management Services which is the holding company for Alliance Venue & Facilities Management (AVFM).

In September 2014, we concluded the operator management contract to manage the Calabar International Convention Centre in Nigeria. My key role is to manage and

Adele Eloff, General Manager of Calabar International Convention Centre

oversee the contractual obligations in operating West Africa’s newest and only purpose built convention centre and I look forward to making this a real success and economic driver, not only for the city of Calabar and the Nigerian market but also as a driver for business tourism in West Africa.

Eloff: I joined the Calabar International Convention Centre (a newly build convention centre in the Cross River State of Nigeria) as their Director of Operations in January this year and was recently promoted to the General Manager with specific focus to the re-opening of the centre.

Ferreira: After three years in Doha I accepted a position in Abu Dhabi as Sales Manager for Conferences at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibitions Company. I work with local key opinion leaders to bring international association conferences head quartered in Europe to Abu Dhabi and ADNEC. Gilbert: I’m the Chief Executive of the Adelaide Convention Centre. I’ve been here nine years now and during that time motivated for a $400-million two stage redevelopment and extension of the centre.

We’ve just opened the first stage and have already started on the second. It’s a spectacular development in a spectacular setting. I also sit on the Business Events Council of Australia.

The Event: What is the state of conferencing in Kuala Lumpur/Indonesia/Nigeria/Abu Dhabi/Adelaide?

Pryor: Malaysia’s business tourism industry continues to develop and grow. This is evidenced by Kuala Lumpur’s (KL) recent improvement in her position in the ICCA (International Convention & Conference Association) Global Ranking 2014 (ICCA Report 2014), jumping two places to 28th out of 400 cities. KL also leapfrogged Asia-Pacific and Middle East counterparts Bangkok, Shanghai and Dubai to improve on her regional city ranking by two positions, to seventh place.

This steady industry growth and improvement in the city and country’s ICCA rankings can be attributed to the government’s endorsement of business tourism as part of her Economic Transformation Programme (which aims

FRESH OPINION | 11

www.theevent.co.za

Irette Ferreira, Sales Manager for Conferences at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibitions Company

to transform the nation into a high income economy by 2020).

Hansen: The Indonesian Conference and trade-fair market is growing rapidly in particular in the capital goods sector.

Indonesia is South East Asia biggest economy, and exhibitions with a conference component is started to generate particular interest. With regard to outside fair-ground space, we have additional 50 000 square meters, and of course international concerts are a huge draw card.

Lord: Conferencing in Nigeria is still at grass level, there are very few venues, that are either not suited to conferencing, old and need of an refurbishment, too small and not suitable for the conference market, hence meetings although a way of life in Nigeria, as Nigerians value face to face meetings, it is conducted in an informal manner. The market is weak and not well supported when conferencing is held and the tendency to not book and pay upfront as is the international trend is having a huge impact in formalizing the industry and giving it credibility. We have some way to match the rest of the world

but with over 200 associations in Africa and many more still to be formed, we expect significant growth over the next 10 years.

Infrastructure like in South Africa will govern the pace and growth. We are working really hard in developing sustainable and suitable conference venues in other major cities across Africa.

Eloff: Nigeria, with a GDP in excess of $520-billion, is at the moment the Africa’s economic power house, with a population of over 160 million people, a combination of above factors and increased resources investment in Africa, serene environment, rich cultural heritage and newly improved meetings facilities, all have stimulated the conference market in Nigeria. This has set Nigeria up as the destination of choice for meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions in Africa.

Ferreira: The Government of Abu Dhabi identified business tourism as a driver for economic development and has therefore put all the building blocks in place to ensure we can compete internationally and host international conferences. Our

“

“

Ultimately my conference experience started and developed through the colleagues, clients and partners I worked with while at CTICC.

Convention Bureau is up and running, we have a world-class venue, unparalleled connectivity and a hunger from our local key opinion leaders to bring conferences to Abu Dhabi. I would say the conference industry in Abu Dhabi is in a good place and getting better daily!

Hopefully one day I will be able to come back to South Africa to use what I have learned and experienced abroad to bring business to our beautiful country!

Gilbert: Very healthy - we’ve just come off a record year. But competition is tough and, as a destination, we don’t have big marketing budgets. Adelaide is a small city without a “must see” attraction but it is a good conference city and punches well above its weight in terms of the events it holds. As we speak, the southern hemisphere’s largest medical research precinct is being developed literally right next door to us. Parts are already operational and the whole complex will be completed by 2018. Fertile ground indeed for medical conferences, especially with our spectacular stage 2 opening in 2017!

12 | FRESH OPINION

www.theevent.co.za

INDUSTRY FRAGMENTATION Could Be Harmful

M

embers of some of the foremost exhibition organisers in Southern Africa recently announced that they have decided to break away from the Exhibition and Event Association of Southern Africa (EXSA), to launch a new industry body – the Association of African Exhibition Organisers (AAXO). However, given local industry growth, increasing interest from international stakeholders, and a number of other influencing factors, Craig Newman, CEO of the Johannesburg Expo Centre, believes that the industry should be cautious and guard against fragmentation.

UFI, SAACI and EXSA have traditionally been the three names that are inextricably linked to the exhibitions, conference and events industry. Each of these organisations has had their own vital part to play.

As the association of the world’s leading tradeshow organisers and fairground owners, as well as the major national and international exhibition associations, UFI fully represents, promotes and supports all its members.

Similarly, SAACI has dedicated itself to promoting efficiency and professionalism in the industry since 1987. As the umbrella body of the Conference and Meetings Industry in Southern Africa, SAACI has branches representing specific industry sectors, such as Conferences and Events, Destination Marketing, Exhibitions, Services, Technical, Transport and Venues. Seem to be moving forward from strength to strength The Exhibition and Event Association of Southern Africa (EXSA) aims to represent, serve and grow the exhibitions industry through promoting the unique benefits offered to all its members.

“The role of these industry bodies and associations is to represent and support the best interests of the entire industry that brought them together,” says Newman.

“However, internal fractions, member politics and dissatisfaction with EXSA’s delivery, have been cited as some of the main reasons as to why a number of exhibition organisers recently decided to resign from EXSA and form their own Organisers Association, AAXO.”

Newman says that while he understands that the decision to break away from EXSA has been an ongoing debate amongst some organisers, he still believes that there are many alternative options that may lead to a better result for the industry as a whole.

He says that while some organisers feel EXSA is no longer serving their best interests, and that this new body will transform into greater benefits for organisers, this might not necessarily play out as well as expected.

“I have some concerns around this decision,” says Newman. “As custodians of the industry, surely the members need to fix their associations themselves if they feel that they are not fulfilling their mandate.

Change should and must come from within and members need to work together to fill in the cracks.”

Newman adds that EXSA has come under fire for being too focused on internal issues and that it lacks dynamism. “While the organisation probably has not been operating at the level where it should be, I believe that what really lies at the heart of this issue is a lack of communication,” he says.

“Has the association’s management been adequately briefed on member expectations?

Have they been given a clear mandate and do

Craig Newman, CEO of the Johannesburg Expo Centre

they understand it? How has the board been structured and is it practical? Is there a proper reporting system? Have clear deliverables been put in place and is this being monitored, measured and managed? Perhaps these are the kinds of questions we should be asking,” says Newman.

“The only way an association can deliver on its objectives is if its members clearly and appropriately communicate their expectations,” he says. “It is easy to stand on the side lines and point fingers but the solution is to get involved in order to bring about positive and constructive change. If there is blame on perceived non-delivery, we should look no further than ourselves.”

For Newman, the apple rots from the inside out and circumstances can only be improved by a change of tactics. “I have always believed that the whole is greater than the sum of its parts, and therefore I don’t believe that any sector, company or individual within this industry should see themselves as bigger than the industry,” says Newman. “Our industry strength has always been our unity and I don’t believe that this is the time for fragmentation, especially with the enthusiastic interest that we are attracting internationally,” he concluded.

FEATURE | 13

www.theevent.co.za

© Shawn Driman Photography

Sandton Convention Centre, Johannesburg

The Lowdown on Budget, Labour and Logistics Part 1 Of course, just because budgets have grown smaller, this isn’t necessarily a bad thing, says Robyn D’Alessandro, National Marketing Manager at Gearhouse SA, a leading technical supplier to the live events industry. “It requires a bit more of an innovative approach to pull it off without compromising standards,” she continues, “I don’t think it is something that is confined to Southern Africa, though…it seems to be a global trend. Gearhouse runs its own fleet of vehicles which helps keep logistical costs to a minimum and keeps us on a strict schedule.”

Efforts to increase business events in South Africa are paying off, and a demand for events on the wider continent is also becoming more apparent. “South African service providers are excelling at creating a more interactive experience for our clients particularly on the ICT solution side of things, which is evolving rapidly,” D’Alessandro explains, “The challenges are, as always, keeping up with the latest technology and trends whilst remaining competitive in the market and maintaining an international standard.”

Courtesy of Gearhouse

O

ften when we think of conferences and expos, we get excited about the inspiring speakers, the jam-packed programme, networking and even marketing.

But all these aspects hinge on getting three main components right: labour, logistics, and budgeting. The latter actually defines how well the former two are executed and is inextricably linked to how innovative and effective a conference or exhibition is.

“Planning and budgeting accurately around any event irrespective of size, has a huge impact on both an organiser’s ability to resource sufficiently, and deliver to the clients expectations,” says Zaida Enver, CEO at Pure Grit Project and Exhibition Management. “Operating within a challenging global economy, budgets have shrunk and clients are always expecting even more of a return on their investment.”

Adriaan Liebetrau, CEO of SAACI shares his sentiments, saying that budget will always be an issue, and have definitely shrunk in recent years. “Organisers can all tell you that clients expect same or more for the limited funds they have. Innovation is needed – out with the old way of doing it.

Just because we did it like this before doesn’t mean it needs to be done the same and break the bank,” he explains.

CONFERENCES AND EXHIBITIONS Oriflame Diamond Conference by Gearhouse

Says Enver: “I think that the industry is a healthy one provided that both conferences and exhibitions continue to remain niche and relevant.” She goes on to say that although the downturn in the economy and ever-depleting marketing budgets are issues that affect decisions to exhibit or partake in conferences, we are doing well in other parts of the process.

“The area we are beginning to excel in is the area of greening and environmental conscious surrounding events.”

Keep an eye out for Part Two of this article in The Event Issue 09, where we explore best practices and tips for making the most of your event from a budgeting, labour and logistical perspective.

14 | JOHANNESBURG EXPO CENTRE

JOHANNESBURG EXPO CENTRE: A Venue with Many Faces

Nelson Mandela Day at Inkwenkwezi Primary School.

H

aving served the industry for 30 years, the Johannesburg Expo Centre (JEC) has become one of the city’s most renowned landmarks in entertainment. Not only is it the official home of South Africa’s most-celebrated consumer event, the Rand Show, but it has also played host to the likes of Automechanika, Johannesburg International Motor Show, Electra Mining, Propak and Sexpo. Besides exhibitions and events, the JEC also takes part in various initiatives that make it the versatile venue it is today.

The Expo Centre is the largest exhibition centre in the country with the capacity to host an audience of 200 000 people. “We have the capacity, experience, resources and strategic partnerships to host an event of any size, across a broad client base,” explains JEC CEO Craig Newman. “However, there’s a lot more to the Expo Centre than just the glamour associated with major events.”

Over the past five years, the JEC has been involved in numerous Corporate Social Investment initiatives at Inkwenkwezi Primary School, a school of 800 learners located in Zone 6, Diepkloof. As part of a recent winter drive, Craig Newman and his team donated 280 blankets to the school on 3 June 2015.

“I am happy that so many of you came to school when it’s such a cold day,” said Newman as he addressed the pupils. “We support you so that you can do your best and we need you to keep your commitment. Work hard, study hard and always pay attention to what is being taught.”

Despite the cold weather, the pupils were in high spirits and cheerfully sang to show their gratitude. “The children chanted in true ‘Inkwenkwezi style’ as they welcomed Mr. Newman and his team,” says Thembeka Mbane, Head of Department of Inkwenkwezi Primary School. “We are extremely grateful for the donation and constant support that we receive from the JEC.” To commemorate Nelson Mandela Day, the JEC, its service providers and its partners revamped Inkwenkwezi Primary School by fixing all broken windows and painting the classrooms.

“General maintenance was done around the school and a vegetable garden was planted,” explains Newman. “The renovations took place from 15-17 July between 9:00am to 16:00pm at the school and we invited all of our service providers and clients to join us.”

This particular initiative is held close to the hearts of the JEC staff members. “We believe strongly in investing in education to develop the youth,” explains Newman. “We would like to encourage other businesses to follow in adopting a school in need so that a difference can be made in local communities.”

To celebrate Youth month, Young ‘n Free hosted a concert in association with Metro FM and MTV Base at the JEC on Monday 15 June.

First conceptualised in 2013 in association with Greenstar Productions, the Young ‘n Free concert has been a major success with R40 000 being raised and distributed to various children’s homes over the past two years.

“It was wonderful to have the Expo Centre on board as co-host for this event,” says Lance

www.theevent.co.za

August Line-Up: • Boat and Bike Show: 8-10 August: www.outdoorlifestyleshow.co.za • Bauma ConExpo Africa: 15-18 September: www.bcafrica.com • IFAT Environmental Technology Forum Africa 2015: 15-18 September: www.ifatforum-africa.com • Fun & Biz Africa Expo: 13-15 August: www.fbafrica.net

Crouch from Greenstar Productions. “We couldn’t have found a better venue.”

The JEC also hosted the 2015 Youth Programme as organised by the Gauteng Provincial Government. The event attracted government officials, youth, educators and a number of high profile speakers who gave lectures on jobs, careers and entrepreneurship.

The event hosted over 6 000 learners per day, providing them with essential information for their ongoing development and empowerment.

“As we honour the 39th anniversary of the June 16th student uprising, we remember that the youth were the ones who eventually drove this country towards democracy in 1994,” said Gauteng MEC for Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation, Ms Molebatsi Bopape.

The event also featured a number of cultural activities such as movies, games, volleyball, chess, rugby, soccer, book reading and storytelling. Festivities concluded with a dedicatory youth march from the historic Hector Peterson Memorial and Museum in Soweto.

“This event would simply not have been possible at any other venue,” says Simon Molefe, Director of Youth Development. “The Expo Centre facilities and its staff were exceptional.”

In other news, the Expo Centre is delighted to announce the introduction of free Wi-Fi throughout the vicinity. “Guests and visitors can finally enjoy the use of Wi-Fi from any location on the property,” says Newman. “This is just one of the exciting new developments taking place and its part of the commitment we’ve made to constantly ensuring that we offer our stakeholders the best possible experience.”

For further information about JEC, visit our website on www.expocentre.co.za Follow us on Facebook: JHB Expo Centre and Twitter: @jhbexpocentre

SPOTLIGHT ON GAUTRAIN BROUGHT TO YOU BY THE

© SA Tourism

OVERVIEW OF GAUTRAIN SERVICES

Gautrain currently offers two distinct train services: an Airport Service linking Sandton and Marlboro to the O.R. Tambo International Airport and a Commuter Service linking Rhodesfield, Marlboro, and Sandton (east-west link) and Park, Rosebank, Sandton, Midrand, Centurion, Pretoria Central and Hatfield (north-south link).

All stations with the exception of the Airport station have integrated car parking facilities. The Gautrain bus fleet currently operates on 25 routes.

AIRPORT SERVICES

Please note that a Gautrain Gold Card costs R14 to purchase, this is a nonrefundable cost of the card. Travelling to and from O.R. Tambo International Airport with the option of making use of Gautrain Car Parks.

Pay for these services from the payas-you-go section of your Gautrain Gold Card. The single-trip airport fare will be levied automatically if your train journey starts or ends at O.R. Tambo International Airport.

7-day and 35-day passes do not apply to airport travel.

FACTS Gautrain busses operate a route directly to Emperors Palace, with the trip taking only a couple of minutes. Guests can park their vehicles in a secure environment and catch the Gautrain bus to either O.R. Tambo International Airport or Rhodesfield station.

Cellphone reception is available on the lower platforms There are dozens of upmarket hotels within walking distance of Gautrain stations.

TIMETABLE

The bus and train services operate daily between 05h30 and 20h30.

During the weekdays, during peak times (between 05h30 and 08h30 and again between 16h00 and 19h00) the trains and buses run every 12 minutes. At off-peak times, the trains and buses run every 20 minutes. On weekends and public holidays the trains run every 30 minutes.

HOW TO USE THE SYSTEM

THE TRAIN SERVICE Simply touch the Gold Card to the ticket reader on the fare-gate and wait for the green light and beeping sound to indicate validation. Pass through the glass barrier, board the train, sit back and relax! Upon leaving the train, touch the card to the ticket reader at the fare-gate, wait for validation and pass through. Thank you for using Gautrain!

THE BUS SERVICE Simply touch the Gold Card to ticket the reader on the bus, wait for the green light and beeping sound to indicate validation. Be seated and relax! Remember to remove your luggage (and kids!). No tag-off is required. The Gautrain bus system was designed with wheelchair users in mind. Ask your driver for assistance.

STATION CAR PARKS Simply touch Gold Card to ticket reader on fare-gate / press button to request paper ticket. Wait for boom and drive in. (Paper ticket holders must take tickets with them, to pay at Ticket Vending Machines after using car park.) Remember to load enough pay as you go value to pay for your parking. If you now wish to use a train / bus, you will need a valid Gautrain Gold Card. When tagging out, insert the paper ticket into and touch the Gold Card to ticket reader on exit gate. Wait for boom and drive out.

COSTS To/From ORTambo Sandton R142 Marlboro R142 Rhodesfield R142 Rosebank R153 Park R153

Midrand Centurion Pretoria Hatfield

R153 R164 R164 R164

PAY AS YOU GO

You get to travel anywhere at any time using any Gautrain service.

Load up to R2,600 value into the pay-as-you-go on your Gautrain Gold Card. The price of the relevant service will be deducted from your ‘Pay As You Go’ every time you check in on a bus, or check out from a train or car park. Customers using more than one Gautrain service within a single journey will automatically enjoy a discounted fare.

BROUGHT TO YOU BY THE

GAUTRAIN VENUES 54 ON BATH For those seeking a stylish, ideally located conference venue in Rosebank, 54 on Bath offers a range of options that caters for up to 120 guests from intimate business meetings and high-level conferences, to cocktail parties. It is situated 300m from the Rosebank Gautrain Station. The hotel offers a choice of 74 elegantly appointed rooms. t: +27 11 344 8500 f: +27 11 344 8501 www.54onbath.com

GARDEN COURT O.R. TAMBO INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT Garden Court O.R Tambo International Airport offers conference facilities with 9 exible venues for up to 250 delegates. The hotel is situated 2km from the RhodesďŹ eld Gautrain Station. Guests have a choice of 253 well-appointed en-suite rooms comprising standard and superior rooms. t: +27 11 392 1062 f: +27 11 974 8097 www.tsogosun.com

GLENALMOND HOTEL SANDTON Glenalmond Hotel is located in the heart of Sandton and situated close to the Sandton Convention Centre, perfectly placed for business and corporate travellers who appreciate quiet, comfortable accommodation.

The hotel features 36 self-catering suites, comprising 24 one-bedroom apartments, and 12 two-bedroom apartments, each with kitchen, lounge, guest bathrooms and private patios. t: +27 11 783 7127 e: bookings@glenalmondhotel.co.za www.glenalmondhotel.co.za BROUGHT TO YOU BY THE

GAUTRAIN VENUES PROTEA HOTEL FIRE & ICE! MELROSE ARCH Smack-dab in the middle of Joburg, the Protea Fire & Ice! is located in the hot lifestyle precinct of Melrose Arch.

Just as fire and ice are a singular combination, the dash of silver screen heroes and heroines, luxury-inspired decor and the exciting backdrop of Johannesburg combine to offer a truly unique experience. t: +27 11 218 4000 c: +27 79 015 9861 e: reservations@fireandice-ma.com

HILTON SANDTON Hilton Sandton is a prime location for conferences and events. Each of the 9 multi-purpose meeting venues is customisable. An executive boardroom with worldclass technology and ballroom accommodating up to 1 000 which offers great flexibility. Facilities are located on the same floor as the business centre, restaurant and bar.

A complimentary Gautrain shuttle service is available. t: +27 11 322 1888 e. sandton_reservations@hilton.com www.hilton.com

THE MASLOW The Maslow is the ultimate business hotel in the heart of Sandton.

All senses have been catered for from the alluring Lacuna Bistro & Bar, to the magnificent ballroom, conference center and 12 unparalleled meeting rooms.

Guests have the convenience of free uncapped WiFi, complimentary shuttle, and the Wayfarer transit lounge. The Maslow Hotel is definitely a game changer, a destination for professionals. t: +27 10 226 4600 www.suninternational.com/maslow BROUGHT TO YOU BY THE

GAUTRAIN VENUES PARK INN SANDTON The Park Inn Sandton Hotel’s location and amenities combine to provide the ideal experience for travellers. Choose from 273 comfortable rooms, while on-site features include delectable dining options, fitness room and a swimming pool. The meeting facilities are perfect for hosting both business and personal events.

Free shuttle service to Sandton City, Mandela Square and Gautrain Sandton Station. t: +27 011 303 1000 e. info.sandton@rezidorparkinn.com www.parkinn.com/hotel-sandton

PROTEA HOTEL PARKTONIAN ALL SUITE With such close proximity and free shuttles to the Gautrain, guests can arrive at the hotel relaxed.

We provide quotes within 2 hours, 6 venues and 4 boardrooms for up to 400 delegates. We also offer 2 executive boardrooms on the roof with breathtaking views. Free Wi-Fi and PA system.

Accommodation in 300 one-bedroom suites. t: +27 11 403 5740 e. accom@parktonian.co.za www.proteahotels.com/parktonian

RADISSON BLU SANDTON The hotel has 302 bedrooms ranging from 32m2 and up.

400m from the Gautrain Station and walking distance to Sandton Shopping Centre. The hotel has a free shuttle which operates within a 3km radius of Sandton.

Guests can enjoy the Wellness Spa and complimentary access to the 5500m2 Platinum Planet Fitness Health Club. t: +27 11 245 8000 f: +27 11 245 8099 e. info.johannesburg@radissonblu.com BROUGHT TO YOU BY THE

GAUTRAIN VENUES RADISSON BLU GAUTRAIN The Radisson Blu Gautrain Hotel is located a mere 55 steps from the Sandton Gautrain and is situated in opulent Sandton. Boasting 220 beautifully appointed guest rooms, exceptional hospitality and extensive meeting facilities, the hotel is a popular choice with discerning business and leisure travellers.

The hotel offers top-class meeting facilities that can cater up to 160 delegates. t: +27 21 11 286 1000 e. meetings.gautrain@radissonblu.com www.radissonblu.com/hotelsandtonjohannesburg

SOUTHERN SUN O.R. TAMBO INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT Ideally located and with exceptional conference facilities, the hotel caters to a number of functions seamlessly.

With 8 flexible venues and meeting rooms, it can accommodate between 10 to 530 guests. The hotel is situated 500m from the O.R Tambo Gautrain Station. Guests are offered a choice of 366 tastefully furnished en-suite rooms. t: +27 11 977 3600 f: +27 11 975 5846 www.tsogosun.com

SOUTHERN SUN PRETORIA Southern Sun Pretoria offers a choice of conference facilities. The hotel can host a variety of events from intimate boardroom meetings for 12 to cocktail functions for 520. Situated only 5km from the Pretoria or Hatfield Gautrain Stations, the hotel offers 240 well-appointed en-suite rooms. t: +27 12 444 5500 f: +27 12 444 5501 www.tsogosun.com BROUGHT TO YOU BY THE

GAUTRAIN VENUES INTERCONTINENTAL JOHANNESBURG O.R TAMBO AIRPORT InterContinental O. R. Tambo Airport, offers travellers a luxurious stay.

The hotel has 7 boardrooms and 2 conference rooms, which can accommodate up to 100 people, with an array of amenities to ensure that the requirements of business visitors are met. Only 850m from the O.R Tambo Gautrain Station, the hotel offers a choice of 138 tastefully decorated en-suite rooms. t: +27 11 961 5400 f. +27 11 961 5401 www.tsogosun.com

SANDTON CONVENTION CENTRE Sandton Convention Centre has over 22 000m2 of convention, exhibition and event space. The Pavillion can seat up to 4500 cinema while the Ballroom can seat up to 2000 banqueting. The Convention Centre offers another 13 smaller meeting rooms accommodating up to 350 delegates. Situated only 650 meters from the Sandton Gautrain Station and close to a number of hotels in Sandton. t: +27 11 779 0000 f. +27 11 779 0001 www.sandtonconventioncentre.com

SANDTON SUN Situated in the heart of Sandton’s business and commercial district, the hotel can host a variety of events, from intimate boardroom meetings for 6 to cocktail functions for up to 200 delegates.

Sandton Sun is situated 650 meters from the Sandton Gautrain Station. Guests can choose from 326 rooms which are currently being refurbished and will be available from September 2015. t: +27 11 780 5000 f. +27 11 780 5002 www.sandtonsun.com BROUGHT TO YOU BY THE

24 | FEATURE

www.theevent.co.za

Spotlight on Three

CORPORATE MEETING VENUES

Sante Boardroom, Orion Hotel Group

by Imogen Campbell

The Olive Convention Centre Boardroom

The Sibaya Casino and Entertainment Kingdom

The Event unpacks the corporate meeting spend and how to stay ahead of the pack.

T

he Event shone the spotlight on three corporate meeting venues this month, namely Sibaya Casino & Entertainment Kingdom, Olive Convention Centre and Orion Hotel Group and unpacked the unique selling points that allow them to retain market share in an increasingly competitive industry.

The Olive Convention Centre is centrally located close to Moses Mabhida Stadium and Durban’s popular Golden Mile. They offer a technologically advanced and practical meeting facility with six multi-purpose venues and some breakaway rooms. The indoor ice-rink venue at the Centre can be converted to accommodate corporate functions. It is well-suited to host an exhibition-style event or can cater for up to 1 700 people theatre style.

Delia Samuels, Sales & Events Manager at the Olive Convention Centre confirmed that 40% of their business is derived from corporate sources. She affirmed that their pricing made them very competitive in the corporate market. They are the only venue in Durban that has an ice rink as part of its offering and ample parking available.

The Sibaya Casino & Entertainment Kingdom north of Durban Central is located between Umdloti and Umhlanga. It overlooks the glistening Indian Ocean and is surrounded by the foothills of KwaZulu-Natal. This impressive complex, defined by its copperplated domes, is multi-functional, infused with African culture and design and offers a selection of exciting entertainment and conference venues. These include casinos, children’s areas and other amenities.

Tracy Bamber, the F&B Marketing Manager at Sibaya, confirmed that about 60% of their revenue is derived from corporate meetings and events. She also mentioned that they compete for corporate business by directing their sales and marketing efforts to corporates.

Tracy said that their unique selling points were manifold. She stated that the Imbizo room, their premier conference centre, has an elegant Afro–chic atmosphere and seats 500 guests, banquet style. They have an authentically South African Boma area with a seating capacity of 280, as well as their Executive boardroom and Izulu theatre. They have a three-tiered Krakatoa nightclub, which

is named after a famous volcano, their Sibaya lodge and The Royal Sibaya hotel.

The Orion Group was founded in 1991, with the Orion Hotels & Resorts portfolio of 14 hotels, resorts and lodges commencing in 2000. Their medley of heritage hotels, luxury estates, city hotels, country retreats and private game lodges boasts hotels and lodges in the three, four and five star categories.

They distinguish themselves by having a strong service culture as well as quality food and dining experiences. Their unique offering offers diversity to eclectic tastes, perfect for the local market.

Edmundo Arguelles, Hotels Marketing Manager confirmed that the 92% of their revenue comes from corporate meetings.

He said that they compete for corporate business by doing field sales and marketing, under the line advertising (print) and adhoc specialised advertising. This includes government publications as well as businessevent magazines and other websites. He said that their unique selling points were, “unique locations across the country, three to four star hotels, and MICE orientated and specialized group support.”

Venues that seem to have multiple revenue streams like the Sibaya Casino & Entertainment Kingdom with family fun and slot machines or the Olive Convention Centre with its ice-rink are more diversified in regard to their product offering. This seems to translate directly into the percentage of profits and understandably corporate spending is less as a result of the market segmentation strategy. A seemingly diversified strategy designed to target the leisure spend of a different market in addition, translates into less revenue from the corporate market as intended.

Current trends and the economy would also affect consumer spending, with many expenses vying for the local market.

www.theevent.co.za

OLIVE CONVENTION CENTRE The Olive Convention Centre is situated in close proximity to Durban’s Golden Mile of beaches and hotels and boasts amazing conference venues, ranging from the Olive Theatre to the Banqueting and Exhibition Hall, Hall of Learning, and a variety of breakaway rooms, meeting rooms and VIP boardrooms. The venue has over 5 000m2 of convention, exhibition and special-event space, comprising four halls, nine meeting venues and four executive rooms. t: +27 31 337 1110 e: info@oliveconventioncentre.co.za www.oliveconventioncentre.co.za

ORION HOTELS & RESORTS Orion Hotels & Resorts offers a fine selection of heritage hotels, luxury estates, city hotels, country retreats and private game lodges, making Orion the only sizable boutique hotel group in Southern Africa.

The unique hand-picked selection of individual properties offers diversity and an exciting array of experiences to cater to our rainbow nation. There are currently 13 hotels in our portfolio situated across Southern Africa. t: +27 86 199 1199 www.orionhotels.co.za

THE IMBIZO PARK INN BY RADISSON CONFERENCE CENTRE The Imbizo Warm up this Conference winter with Centre a state offersofanthe Afroart Full Day chic atmosphere Conference with extensive Package from experience R295 perhosting in persondiverse at Park groups Inn byand Radisson events. The Cape Town Newlands.

Imbizo room seatsIncluding 500 guestshigh banquet speed reliable style, 400Wi-Fi, school-room write onand chalk 800board cinema walls, standard style, and includes AV equipment, a pre-assembly two smart areatea with breaks, lunch breakaway facilities. with Delegates smart food have andaccess parking. to Experience Sibaya’s accommodation the first nextand generation entertainment conference facilities facilities, including in South five diverse Africa.restaurants, live entertainment, the Mangwanani spa and state-of-the-art gaming. t: +27 21 822 6500 e:+27 t: info.newlands.capetown@ 031 580 5170 / +27 031 580 5171 e: sibayabanqueting@suninternational.com rezidorparkinn.com parkinn.com/hotel-capetown-newlands www.suninternational.com

CORPORATE MEETING VENUES | 25

26 | FEATURE

www.theevent.co.za

On the red carpet at the Loerie Awards

LOERIES: T

he Loeries are more than just brand communication awards, and not many in the events industry realise its potential. Their year-round focus on creative inspiration helps marketers, agencies and consumers appreciate the value of ideas and fresh thinking – not to mention showcasing the value that creativity adds to Africa and the Middle East’s brands and economy.

Loeries® Creative Week™, taking place for the first time in Durban this year, is a festival of innovation, excellence and creativity. From 10 to 16 August, thousands of delegates will

Why the business events industry should take notice

converge on the Golden Mile, Durban’s famous beachfront, to take part in various events, including the Loeries Judging, the DStv International Seminar of Creativity and the black-tie Awards Ceremonies and their many exciting parties.

But why is it important for the business events industry to sit up and take notice?

“With the change in the way we communicate, brands recognise the importance and value of innovation,” says Andrew Human, CEO of the Loeries. “And with this, the attendance of marketers at Loeries® Creative Week™ is at its highest levels ever. I’d say anyone choosing

not to be there is practising career suicide.”

Some of the awards categories that apply to the events industry include Interior Design and Temporary Structures, Live Events, Activations & Sponsorship, Outdoor & Out of Home, Indoor Posters and of course, Effective Creativity. Says Human: “The Loeries primarily recognises the value that creativity adds, across all media. This means judges are looking for the same thing across all entries – whether architecture or outdoor – innovation.”

He goes on to explain that even though events professionals may not think of themselves as ‘creative types’, there is definitely

FEATURE | 27

www.theevent.co.za

All images © 2014 Loerie Awards

“

Adams & Adams Student Portfolio Day

Yaw Nsarkoh at the DStv Seminar

With the change in the way we communicate, brands recognise the importance and value of innovation. Anyone choosing not to be there is practising career suicide.

“

something for them at the Loeries. “One of the big misperceptions is that ‘creative’ means something fanciful and weird. Even ‘artsy’.

Creative for the Loeries means innovation in ideas. It’s not about pretty pictures but about how things are done differently, how a fresh approach can take us somewhere new. This is relevant to event organisers as much as anyone else.”

This year sees a number of great speakers gracing the DStv Seminar of Creativity’s stage.

These include Chuck Porter, Partner and Chairman of CP+B, Ji Lee, Creative Director at Facebook Creative Shop in New York, Chris Clarke, Chief Creative officer at Digitaslbi International, Ali Ali, acclaimed Film Director

from Cairo, Stan Sthanunathan, Senior VP at CMI, Unilever, and Steve Vranakis, Executive Creative Director at Google Creative Lab. Ji Lee, who has worked with the likes of Google, Droga5 and Saatchi & Saatchi in the past, will also head up the Communication Design judging panel as Chairman. The rest of the panel comprising nine big local names including Gaby de Abreu of Switch Design, Simone Rossum of Joe Public and Kabelo Moshapalo of TBWA. In 2015, entries to the Loeries increased by 20%, with an 80% increase in entries from outside South Africa. “I hope that this is indicative of an overall increase in the buoyancy of the local economy, as marketing spend is

generally a good indicator of brand activity,” Human remarks.

There has also been a growing interest in young creatives at the Loeries, with the Creative Future Scholarship awarded to one lucky grade-12 student from KZN this year, and with the annual Adams & Adams Young Creatives Award, open to entrants from the entire Africa and Middle East region.

The Loeries has consistently maintained and grown from strength to strength – and there are so many opportunities that events industry folk can take advantage of. When asked about how it manages to hold onto its clout, Human concludes: “The Loeries evolves continuously, recognising the changes taking place across the media landscape. From this year, the whole region of Africa and the Middle East is integrated across all categories, so there is no longer a ‘South African’ section versus ‘the rest’. This allows us to truly showcase the best work across the region and we expect representation outside South Africa to grow each year.”

28 | FEATURE

www.theevent.co.za

AFRICAN AIRLINE UPDATE Let's Start Moving with the Times

A

frican airlines have been through a tumultuous few years. Many flag carriers – including South African Airways – received government bailouts on multiple occasions. But, just as many a tough decision has been made, so have there also been a number of triumphs.

Ethiopian Airlines, for instance, recently graduated over 150 airline trainees and has grown into Africa’s largest carrier.

The industry still faces many challenges, however, as outlined in talks at this year’s Aviation Festival in late June. Demand for a route is the fundamental concern of airlines, with Erik Venter, CEO of Comair, saying, “It is expensive to open new routes in Africa.

Volumes are lacking and, at the end of the day, opening a new route is about the economy of scale. Growth in the economy and demand for routes can happen naturally over a longer period of time, or by someone subsidising route projects.”

Aside from the issue of market development, certain African airports do not have adequate parking space for aircraft.

Other problems plaguing Africa’s aviation industry include expenses and regulations, taxes, fuel problems and safety concerns.

An example, cited in a recent report by eTN Global Travel Industry News, is ‘draculators’ in East Africa, regulators who keep low-

cost airlines out of their skies to ensure there’s no competition, or those who hit tourism and aviation with taxes, despite evidence in studies done by International Air Transport Association (IATA), the UNWTO, and others, showing the negative impact of these taxes. Even the Africa Union has compounded the issue with its current budget estimate, trying to extract US$10 for arrivals and departures, and a US$1 tax on every bednight spent.

According to IATA reports, the global passenger traffic results for May showed a strong demand growth compared to May 2014. Africa was the only region that did not report growth, but instead, traffic fell 3.9% compared to last year, most likely owing to adverse economic developments in certain parts of the continent.

Nevertheless, the African market is expanding rapidly, with major potential in West Africa particularly. “Opportunities in Africa lie in the most feasible route,” Venter continues, “Nigeria is a massive market that is underserved. If they could get their market right and operations in order, Nigeria would be a potential investment.”

The country does not have a low-cost carrier, making it a “blatant opportunity that no one is taking”.

IATA Director General and CEO, Tony

Tyler, offered the following advice at the IATA Africa and Middle East Aviation Day in Kenya: “Africa is set to be one of the fastestgrowing aviation regions over the next 20 years, with annual expansion averaging nearly 5%. This opens up incredible economic opportunities for Africa. But aviation faces considerable challenges, and a focus on delivering the safety and connectivity commitments of the African Union, will be crucial to establishing Africa as a global aviation powerhouse.”

He went on to urge governments to speed up a plan known as the Yamoussoukro Decision to open their airspace to local carriers by 2017. The plan was signed in 1999 by 44 states. “At the moment Africa punches below its weight in terms of connectivity with the rest of the world through African airlines,” he said. Tyler also told conference goers that the cost of fuel, which comprises nearly 30% of an airline’s costs, is more than 20% higher in Africa than elsewhere. “The opportunity here is for governments to cancel these unnecessary and penalising taxes,” he told a news conference, noting that the benefits of increased travel would outweigh the shortterm loss of fuel tax revenue for states. Tyler cited safety, smarter regulation, infrastructure and environment as key challenges that need to be addressed across the continent.

FEATURE | 29

www.theevent.co.za

What’s New in Africa’s Skies?

So much has been happening in the continent’s aviation industry over the last few years. Not only have a number of airlines increased flights to popular attractions and tourist destinations, but a number of new carriers have also emerged. Here’s the lowdown: • Kenya’s tourism has attracted another airline, with Skyward Express joining companies like Safarilink on the route from Nairobi to the northern Kenyan town of Lodwar. The newcomer will serve the route four times a week.

• Ethiopian Aviation Academy graduated 155 aviation professionals in early July: 19 pilots, 49 aviation maintenance technicians, 42 cabin crew and 45 marketing trainees. The Academy is the foundation of Ethiopian Airlines, and, according to CEO Tewolde GebreMariam, their vision is to create a workforce of over 17,000 employees by 2025.

• Ghana’s government has been urged to bring back local carrier Antrak Air with a bailout. The troubled airline closed operations over two months ago because of high overheads.

• Lufthansa has increased capacity between Cape Town and Munich from five weekly flights to a daily, non-stop schedule for the summer season. Edelweiss, Switzerland’s leading leisure carrier will also connect Cape Town with Zurich nonstop twice a week from October 2015 to March 2016, while Lufthansa will upgrade its service between Johannesburg and Frankfurt with the Boeing 747-8, the next generation of the iconic jumbo jet.

• Qatar Airways has announced a new destination this year: Zanzibar. It is the airline’s third route in Tanzania following Dar es Salaam and Kilimanjaro.

The airline is also adding frequencies to its popular routes including Djibouti and Luxor.

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

South African Airways recently completed its 90-day Action Plan and is on its way to relative stability, according to Nico Bezuidenhout, Acting CEO of SAA. The company supports 33,000 jobs in South Africa, contributing US$900 million to the country’s GDP every year. Their goal is to increase revenue in the African region by 30% in the next 12 months.

Abu Dhabi Airports is in negotiations to build a new airport in the Seychelles. This will strengthen ties between the two states and increase tourism to the island state.

Golfers in particular will be keen to fly non-stop from Vipingo Ridge to Wilson Airport in Mombasa, Kenya. Safarilink’s new route will cut hours off journey time, allowing passengers to fly from upcountry directly into Kenya’s number one golf resort.

South Africa’s Garden Route, between the Eastern and Western Cape, has become one of Mango Airline’s top performing routes, with capacity growing between Joburg and Port Elizabeth by 200% in 2013/14. The airline’s market share between Cape Town and Port Elizabeth grew by 20.8% for the same period.

SA Express recently launched routes from Johannesburg and Cape Town to renowned safari getaway, Sun City.

The flights began in April this year and are part of a drive to boost domestic and international tourism to the North West province.

Algerian flag carrier Air Algerie has received its third A330-200 Airbus as part of its acquisition programme of 16 new aircraft. The fleet renewal programme involves the acquisition of 7 Airbuses and 8 Boeing by the end of 2016.

Low-cost SA carrier, FlySafair, which was relaunched in October 2014, has introduced four new routes following traveller votes. The airline will add Cape Town-Durban, Cape Town-East London,

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

Johannesburg-Durban and JohannesburgEast London routes to its schedule.

Iron Maiden’s frontman Bruce Dickinson, who is also Chairman of Cardiff Aviation, will help Djibouti relaunch its former flag carrier.

Fastjet launched is fifth international destination out of Tanzania’s Dar es Salaam in late July with a twice weekly service to Lilongwe in Malawi. This follows routes to Johannesburg, Lusaka, Harare and Entebbe.

Tanzania’s Auric Air has announced additional flights to Iringa, a place where few other airlines aside from expensive charters, fly to.

Ethiopian Airlines, the largest airline in Africa, started flights to Cape Town at the end of June, its second destination in SA. It also started flights to Gaborone and Botwana, giving customers more and convenient connectivity options when travelling around the continent.

Air Mauritius and SAA have strengthened their codeshare from a soft block to free flow, essentially paving the way for wider cooperation and collaboration between the airlines.

Etihad Cargo has increased its freighter services to Africa with its cargo-only service to Brazzaville in the Republic of Congo.

Germany’s Condor has announced the return of non-stop Munich-Mombasa flights, over and above their existing flights from Frankfurt to Mombasa, Kenya.

SA’s newest low-cost airline, Skywise, took its first commercial flight in March this year. The carrier hopes to move over 25,000 passengers a month, and, together with FlySafair, which captured 9% of the country’s market share in October 2014, broke the duopoly of SAA and Comair in South Africa. As a result, Mango has added two more aircraft to its fleet for higher domestic capacity.

30 | REGIONAL SPOTLIGHT

www.theevent.co.za

© Black Mountain Leisure & Conference Hotel

© Free State Tourism Authority Black Mountain Leisure & Conference Hotel

© Free State Tourism Authority

The Eagle Route

FREE STATE Sojourn into Tranquillity The capital: Bloemfontein

by Imogen Campbell

T

he Free State has a distinctive bean-like shape, with the Kingdom of Lesotho, snugly fitting into its hollow whilst bordering six other provinces in the country. It is the thirdargest South Africa province, but the second most sparsely populated, with 2 745 590 inhabitants (Census 2011).

Its capital, Bloemfontein, also South Africa’s judicial capital is known as the “City of Roses.” An alternate name is Mangaung, which in Sesotho means ‘place of the cheetahs’. It is apt that cheetahs were re-introduced into Laohu Valley Reserve two years ago, after a century-long absence.

Known as the granary of South Africa due to its grain and agricultural output, it is also a major gold producer, in fact the mining sector is the province’s largest employer.

The Free State is also a South African leader in the field of biofuel production, with petrochemicals giant, Sasol, based in Sasolburg.

Key venues Black Mountain Leisure & Conference Hotel This sophisticated venue is off the beaten track, in the heart of the Maria Moroka Nature Reserve, previously known as the Thaba Nchu Sun. They have expressed that the public areas are under interlinked pyramids, whose patterned walls and grey slate roofs fit into the landscape.

The conferencing venues comprise nine rooms and the conference seating capacity is as follows:

Venue

UShaped

School Room

Theatre

Banquet

Extended Buffalo

140

300

400

120

Boardroom (Seats 16)

-

-

-

-

Buffalo

120

90

100

80

Cinema

-

-

-

-

Climate

Eland

27

36

50

30

With a continental climate, the Free State experiences warm to hot summers and cool to cold winters. Its rainy season is the summer and the grassy plains are often treated to magnificent thunderstorms..

Hartebeest

27

36

50

30

Rhino

140

300

400

Wildebeest

42

40

Zebra

42

40

Woodlands Conference and Function Venue Woodlands Conference and Function Venue is located on northern side of Bloemfontein on the farm Woodlands. Situated in a secure game-farm environment, it features most of the antelope found in Southern Africa.

Some the key venues for conferences have the following seating capacities.

The Stone Hall Venue

Maximum Capacity

Banquet with dance floor

100

Cinema Style

200

School Room Style Presentation

80

U-shape with dining area

50

Cocktail Party with lounge sets

120

The Large Hall Venue

Maximum Capacity

Banquet with dance floor

450

280

Cinema Style

650

60

30

School Room Style Presentation

300

60

30

Cocktail Party with lounge sets

350

REGIONAL SPOTLIGHT | 31

www.theevent.co.za

© Woodlands Conference and Function Venue Golden Gate; Woodlands Conference and Function Venue

Airlines that fly in Bloemfontein International Airport was officially renamed Bram Fischer International Airport in 2012.

Only domestic airlines operate in the Free State and these are South African Airways, CemAir, South African Express and Mango Airlines.

Getting around the city Centrally located in the country, a car is required to explore the Free State. Online car rental via international and local companies is simple and a wide range of vehicles are available.

Pre-and Post-tour opportunities The Free State’s premier tourist attraction is Golden Gate Highlands National Park, the only grassland national park in country.

Nestled in the foothills of the Maluti Mountains, it derives its name from the exquisite shades of gold and ochre exuded when the sun glosses the remarkable sandstone cliffs. Sentinel Rock is known to be especially daunting. Whilst meandering in this park, it is ideal to stop off at the Basotho Cultural Village. It offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience the Basutho hospitality and learn about their traditional lives, arts and crafts. Sesotho is spoken by 62% of the population.

Vredefort Dome, one of eight South Africa UNESCO World Heritage sites, is the largest visible meteor-impact site in the world. For the more active pursuits, visitors to the region should arrange a visit to the Gariep Dam Nature Reserve, adjacent to the Gariep Dam, which is the largest dam in South Africa. It is a watersports and anglers’ hotspot and enjoys

A woman’s touch in delivering efficiency and excellence Developing and enabling an environment

The above perspective is true

that recognises female talent and nurtures

standing at Compex. “Our

their potential and skills is essential not only in

female colleagues have a

our industry but in the workplace in general.

knowing understanding of

In many instances our female colleagues

exactly what the client desires

bring a unique perspective to the solutions

and needs, in Compex this has

we deliver to our clients. For many years the

proved over and over again

supplier sector within the events and exhibition

to be core strength when

environment was primarily male dominated;

selling and designing custom

the last two decades, however, has

stands and pavilions”, says

increasingly seen women play a greater and

Dean Gunningham, Operations

more influential role in the outcome of many

Director at Compex.

a successful event. By their very nature, men

As we celebrate Women’s Day

tend to be more involved in the physical side

on the 9 August, it is important to

of supply, whereas a women’s natural ability

reflect on the fact that women

for fluent project management, creativity

have and will continue to firmly

and organisation has led to an evolving

establish themselves as an influencing force

situation where more and more events are

throughout the business world. In an industry

being managed by the combination of both

where women play such an integral role it

female and male skillsets. This dual-gender

is essential that we continue to create an

collaboration has proven to be advantageous,

inclusive environment that recognises our

introducing a diverse range of skills and

female talent, empowers them and focuses

knowledge and ensuring that that the growth

on their career development as leaders

rate of our industry continues to increase.

within the events and exhibition sector.

some popularity from game watchers as it is also home to the largest herd of springbok in South Africa.

The Franklin Game Reserve is in the heart of Bloemfontein itself, one of only two city reserves in the world. This 250-hectare wildlife reserve has giraffe and blue wildebeest as well as many bird species.

Contacts Free State Department of Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs Physical: 34 Markgraaf Street, Westdene, 9301 Postal: Private Bag X20801, Bloemfontein, 9300 Tel: 051 400 9542 / 0861 102 185 Fax: 051 400 9593 Website: www.edtea.fs.gov.za Free State Tourism Authority Address: Koupies Building, 99 President Reitz Ave, Bloemfontein, 9301 Phone: 051 409 9900 Website: freestatetourism.org/

32 | EVENTS

www.theevent.co.za

AUGUST THE WEDDING EXPO 2015 22 – 23 The Ticketpro Dome, Johannesburg

THE WEDDING EXPO 2015 1–2 Moses Mabhida Stadium, Durban

SA INNOVATION SUMMIT 26 – 29 Cape Town Stadium, Cape Town

IMC CONFERENCE CAPE TOWN 3–4 Museum Africa Newtown, Johannesburg

SOUTHERN AFRICAN NEUROLOGICAL REHABILITATION ASSOCIATION (SANRA) 27 – 29 Wanderer’s Club, Illovo,

DECOREX JOBURG 2015 6 – 10 Gallagher Convention Centre, Johannesburg 100% DESIGN SOUTH AFRICA 6 – 10 Gallagher Convention Centre, Johannesburg

THE CAPE HOMEMAKERS EXPO 27 – 30 Cape Town International Convention Centre, Cape Town HOBBY-X 28 – 30 Durban Exhibition Centre, Durban

THE LOERIE AWARDS 10 – 16 Durban International Convention Centre, Durban

GAUTENG GETAWAY SHOW 28 – 30 Ticketpro Dome, Johannesburg

CAPE CONSTRUCTION EXPO 12 – 13 Cape Town International Convention Centre, Cape Town

SANDTON MOTOR SHOW 29 – 30 Sandton Convention Centre, Johannesburg

AMiD MOTORCYCLE LIFESTYLE SHOW 2015 14 – 15 Johannesburg Expo Centre, Johannesburg

SEPTEMBER

BIKE AND BOAT SHOW 14 – 16 Johannesburg Expo Centre, Johannesburg

CHINA HOMELIFE AFRICA 1–3 Sandton Convention Centre, Johannesburg

SARCDA CHRISTMAS 2015 20 – 23 Gallagher Convention Centre, Johannesburg,

AFRICA OIL & GAS EXPO 2015 8–9 Sandton Convention Centre, Johannesburg

BUSINESS ENTREPRENEURSHIP & FRANSCHISE EXPO 2015 10 – 13 Ticketpro Dome, Johannesburg FNB JOBURG ART FAIR 11 – 13 Sandton Convention Centre, Johannesburg 3RD WORLD SOCIAL SCIENCE FORUM AFRICA 13 – 16 Durban International Convention Centre, Durban BAUMA CONEXPO AFRICA 15 – 18 Johannesburg Expo Centre, Johannesburg WORLD ROUTES DEVELOPMENT CONGRESS 19 – 22 Durban, South Africa WASHEN - WATER, SANITATION, HYGIENE, AND ENERGY EXPO 24 – 25 Zimbabwe International Exhibition Centre, Zimbabwe THE WITNESS GARDEN SHOW 24 – 27 Royal Showgrounds, Pietermaritzburg INTERNATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS ASSOCIATION 27 – 29 Johannesburg, South Africa AFRICA ELECTRICITY POWERING THE GROWTH OF AFRICA 30 September – 2 October Sandton Convention Centre, Johannesburg

Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, © SA Tourism

WINELANDS BRIDAL FAIR 2015 1–2 Spier Wine Farm, Cape Town

34 | ASSOCIATIONS

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

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 growtheir 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 Africa 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 of being your partner in the business events industry, we have a great track record of 1500 indvidual, corporate and patron members representing all sectors. We are recognised by both the private sector and government as the industry’s official representative, our members adhere to a strict code.

Everything we do, and everything our members do is a reflection of our values integrity, intelligence, innovation, sustainibility PCSA comply with the Code.

Exhibition Organisers unite to launch new industry association Some of the largest and most successful exhibition organisers in Southern Africa, namely Specialised Exhibitions Montgomery, MMI South Africa, Hypenica, Thebe Reed Exhibitions, Spintelligent, Terrapinn, The Wedding Group, SA Confex Services, TE Trade Events, Exposure Marketing, LTE and Synergy Business Events, have announced that they will be launching a new industry association – the Association of African Exhibition Organisers (AAXO). AAXO will be a powerful and cohesive voice that speaks on behalf of exhibition organisers specifically.

It will focus on the urgent issues and unique challenges facing organisers and will prioritise market research and trend tracking in order to drive the constant innovation needed to keep the SA exhibition sector flourishing and profitable. The formation of AAXO follows the decision from several organisers to break away from the umbrella body for exhibitions and events, EXSA. The intention is to create a platform with greater benefits for organisers, however AAXO will continue to engage and align with EXSA. With the increased complexity evident in the industry, the shifting media landscape and the constant pressure on exhibition organisers to provide a return on investment for exhibitors, there is a need for improved leadership and an emphasis

on flexibility and innovation.

Focused on this, AAXO will give members unique benefits, tailored to their requirements, in order to help them to stay competitive. These include: a company listing and listing of their exhibitions on the AAXO website; creating a BBBEE suppliers list; association social media engagement; member discounts from preferred suppliers; exhibition and organiser awards; and advice on venues in Africa. The Association of African Exhibition Organisers will add further value through legal and administrative support such as standardising legal agreements and documentation; offering a mediation facility in conflict situations; negotiating with government bodies on behalf of organisers; negotiate a SARS VAT ruling; and agreeing on a window period for staging competing exhibitions.

Various portfolios of responsibility have already been allocated to a number of organisers to ensure the AAXO will benefit from their relevant expertise. Funding for the long-overdue industry market research has been secured through AAXO and this research will be of great advantage to all the members of the new association.

The Association of African Exhibition Organisers aims to be fully functional by January 2016.

The Free State © iStockphoto

SAACI

www.theevent.co.za

EVENT GREENING FORUM | 35

www.theevent.co.za

NO NEED TO WASTE T

he striking thing about events is the impact that they have on the environment, and the amount of waste that they generate. Of course with events of any scale (be they short meetings or massive music festivals) there are many significant factors which impact the environment such as transport, printing of marketing materials, and electricity usage to name a few. It is of concern when after an event such as an outdoor festival, you can hardly see the ground for the plastic cups, cans, bottles and cigarette butts covering it.

Although recycling is an admirable and effective means of dealing with the problem, the ultimate solution is to reduce the amount of materials used as well as to use more eco-friendly materials. There is a wide variety of products and packaging used at events, making the scope for potential changes huge. Some of the items central to most events can possibly be sourced or produced in a way which reduces pressure on the environment. The list below highlights some of the basic areas which should be considered:

Beverages Plastic cups are supplied in vast quantities at events – at refreshment stations, at the bar or at water coolers. These could be replaced with paper cups. For indoor events such as conferences or exhibitions, glass bottles may be a better solution. In addition, it is the organiser’s responsibility to ensure that cool drinks are available in tin cans or glass bottles, not only in plastic bottles. At least then it is up to the consumer to make a choice instead of being subjected to a limited and environmentallyharmful selection of packaging.

cleaning the packaging which leaves them in the realm of contaminated, unrecyclable waste. Due to the fact that events are by definition temporary, these meals were probably bought and consumed within 30 minutes, making the need for such packaging unnecessary. It would be encouraging to see food providers at events serving their dishes with a system of returnable plates and cutlery. Of course, many challenges would be encountered, but this is important when looking at the future of green events. If packaging is unavoidable, perhaps biodegradable or compostable materials could be used, especially considering that most meals and beverages will be consumed shortly after purchase.

The collection and management of food waste is also a very important aspect to consider. Separating food waste from ordinary waste leads to a reduction in the generation of greenhouse gases as well as less recyclable material being contaminated. It also results in a large amount of compostable material. There are also companies which manage the distribution of leftover food (instead of disposing of it) – another socially responsible practice.

Cigarettes

Food

Most venues encourage or force visitors to smoke in designated areas, but it is very difficult to control the disposal of cigarette butts. The organisers of Rocking the Daisies use a very clever scheme whereby cigarette butts collected may be exchanged for a drink at the bar. This is a great example of incentivising more sustainable festival and event practices. Some outdoor festivals even supply containers which visitors can carry with them to use as a personal cigarette butt disposal kit.

Without even considering the sourcing and quality of the food, the packaging is vitality important when it comes to waste reduction. Again, walking past a dustbin overflowing with polystyrene food boxes is very disappointing. There is no way of

When it comes to exhibitions or conferences, there may be a better way to display visitor badges without using lanyards and plastic sleeves. Most of

Exhibitor/visitor packs

by Tim Nel

these are discarded after the event and form another source of waste. Lanyards could quite easily be made using natural materials and perhaps plastic sleeves are not necessary. Some organisers do collect the above items at the door for visitors who are leaving – it would be ideal if these could be re-used at events to come.

Promotional materials With regard to exhibitions, many companies go the route of giving away promotional materials. Perhaps organisers could offer exhibitors the option of purchasing and branding more environmentally-friendly products such as bags made from recyclable materials or pens made from paper. Both of these products have been used by the Event Greening Forum and we have received fantastic feedback from countless visitors.

There are many people and many different industries involved in events. It is a significant challenge trying to convince all of the relevant parties to move towards more sustainable practices. A very important element in bringing about these changes is encouragement. This doesn’t need to be an uphill battle. With an attitude of positivity and confidence, it is possible to guide and show event organisers and goers that shifting to greener practices is possible and beneficial. A good way to start this process is by providing simple information about the event’s greening activities, providing signage at the event directing people to the ‘green’ products and services mentioned above, and even making announcements or offering incentives to encourage more conscious behaviour at events.

36 | DIRECTORY LISTINGS

www.theevent.co.za

ADVERTISERS COMPANY

TELEPHONE

EMAIL

WEBSITE

54 on Bath AAXO CCPP Compex Crystal Events Emperors Palace (Peermont) Event Greening Forum Expo Centre Johannesburg EXSA Fire & Ice Melrose Arch Garden Court OR Tambo

+27 11 344 8500 +27 11 549 8300 +27 82 800 6861 +27 11 262 2490 +27 21 555 3617 +27 11 928 1445 +27 74 369 6369 +27 11 494 1920 +27 11 805 7272 +27 11 218 4000 +27 11 392 1062

54onbath.reservations@tsogosun.com info@aaxo.co.za clint@ccpp.co.za exhibit@compex.co.za tes@crystalevents.co.za intsales@peermont.com lynn@eventgreening.co.za info@expocentre.co.za exsa@exsa.co.za reservations@fireandice-ma.com gcortambo.reservations@tsogosun.com

Gautrain Management Agency GL Events South Africa Hilton Sandton Intercontinental JHB OR Tambo Olive Convention Centre Park Inn Sandton Protea Hotel Parktonian Radisson Blu Gautrain Hotel Radisson Blu Hotel Sandton SAACI Sandton Convention Centre Sandton Sun Scan Display Solutions Sibaya Southern Sun OR Tambo Southern Sun Pretoria The Conference Company The Glenalmond Hotel The Maslow The Orion Group Thebe Reed Tshwane Events Centre

+27 11 086 3500 +27 11 210 2500 +27 11 322 1888 +27 11 961 5400 +27 31 337 1110 +27 11 303 1000 +27 11 403 5740 +27 11 286 1000 +27 11 245 8000 +27 41 374 5654 +27 11 779 0000 +27 11 780 5000 +27 11 447 4777 +27 31 580 5174 +27 11 977 3600 +27 12 444 5500 +27 21 914 2751 +27 11 783 7127 +27 10 226 4600 +27 86 199 1199 +27 11 549 8300 +27 12 327 1487

info@gautrain.co.za info@oasys.co.za reservations.sandton@hilton.com reservations@icairport.com info@oliveconventioncentre.co.za info.sandton@rezidorparkinn.com accom@parktonian.co.za meetings.gautrain@radissonblu.com reservations.sandton@radissonblu.com info@saaci.org scc.info@tsogosun.com sandtonsun.reservations@tsogosun.com justin@scandisplay.co.za tracy.bamber@suninternational.com ssortambo.reservations@tsogosun.com sspretoria.reservations@tsogosun.com info@confco.co.za bookings@glenalmondhotel.co.za maslow@suninternational.com salesco@orionhotels.co.za Info@ThebeReed.co.za ricky@tshwabac.co.za

www.54onbath.com www.aaxo.co.za www.ccpp.co.za www.compex.co.za www.crystalevents.co.za www.emperorspalace.com www.eventgreening.co.za www.expocentre.co.za www.exsa.co.za www.proteahotels.com/melrose www.tsogosunhotels.com/garden-court/or-tambointernational-airport.co.za www.gautrain.co.za www.gl-events.co.za www.hiltonworldwide.com www.tsogosun.com www.oliveconventioncentre.co.za www.parkinn.com/hotel-sandton www.parktonian.co.za www.radissonblu.com/hotelsandton-johannesburg www.radissonblu.com www.saaci.co.za www.saconvention.co.za www.sandtonsun.com www.scandisplay.co.za www.suninternational.com www.tsogosun.com www.tsogosun.com www.confco.co.za www.glenalmondhotel.co.za www.suninternational.com/maslow www.orionhotels.co.za www.ThebeReed.co.za www.tshwane-events.co.za

CONTACT US

Cover Image: Courtesy of Expo Centre Johannesburg Publisher: Lance Gibbons lance@filmeventmedia.co.za Executive Editor: Katie Reynolds katie@filmeventmedia.co.za Head of Design: Sheree Steenkamp sheree@filmeventmedia.co.za Writer: Kim Muller kim@filmeventmedia.co.za Assistant Designer: Lauren Smith lauren@filmeventmedia.co.za Editorial Assistant: Imogen Campbell info@filmeventmedia.co.za

Account Executive: Sue-Anne Maree sue-anne@filmeventmedia.co.za Account Executive: Tony Fernandes tony@filmeventmedia.co.za Group Sales Manager: Lloyd Kirsten lloyd@filmeventmedia.co.za Production and Traffic Manager: Nazeera Hartley Roach nazeera@filmeventmedia.co.za Sales Co-ordinator: Tracey-Anne Arendse tracey-anne@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.