The Event Issue 11

Issue 11 | 2013

+ Party Planning Heats Up Ideas for Every Taste and Budget

+ World Travel Awards Africa The Best in Travel, Tourism, and Hospitality

+ EIBTM

Welcomes Africa

07 www.theevent.co.za Cover: Shutterstock Š Martin Valigursky Publisher: Lance Gibbons lance@filmeventmedia.co.za Executive Editor: Maya Kulycky maya@filmeventmedia.co.za Manager, Special Projects: Taryn Fowler taryn@filmeventmedia.co.za Key Account Manager (SA): Nina Zani Nina@theevent.co.za Sales Manager (Outside SA): Shaun Ross shaun@filmeventmedia.co.za Head of Design: Jess Novotna jess@filmeventmedia.co.za Editorial and Design Co-ordinator: Kim Muller kim@filmeventmedia.co.za Digital Co-ordinator: Tammi Klein tammi@filmeventmedia.co.za 57 2nd Avenue, Harfield Village, Claremont 7708, Cape Town, South Africa Tel: +27 21 674 0646 www.filmeventmedia.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.

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Contents World Travel Awards Africa

02

South Africa’s Inaugural Travel & Tourism Summit

04

American Express Forecasts 2014 Meetings Trends

06

Sports and Events Tourism Exchange Grows

08

EIBTM Welcomes Africa

10

Meetings Africa Bigger and Better in 2014

13

Party Planning for Every Taste and Budget

16

Investing in Convention Centres

22

Northern Africa

24

Tshwane - Capital of the Rainbow Nation

28

Event Greening Forum

31

Events

32

Industry Moves

34

Associations

36

Product Showcase

38

Opportunities

39

Directory

40

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NEWS

World Travel Award Africa Winners Announced

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he tourism industry gathered in Nairobi, Kenya in October for the World Travel Awards Africa Gala Ceremony. For 20 years the World Travel Awards have recognised the best travel, tourism and hospitality organisations.

South Africa is celebrating wins including South African Airways being named Africa’s Leading Airline, O.R. Tambo International Airport named the continent’s leading airport, Africa’s Leading Business Hotel named the Sandton Sun, South Africa, and Africa’s Leading Conference Hotel winner The Westin Cape Town, South Africa. Africa’s Leading Meetings and Conference Centre was won by the International Convention Centre Durban, South Africa, and Africa’s Leading Meetings and Conference Destination is Cape Town, South Africa.

Kenya also won top awards with the Kenya Tourism Board being named Africa’s Leading Tourist Board and Kenya Airways winning the Africa’s Leading Airline Business Class title. Serena Hotels was named Africa’s Leading Hotel Brand and Avis took the title of Africa’s Leading Business Car Rental Company.

Winners from this event will compete in the Grand Final, which will take place on 30 November. Congratulations to all the winners!

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Category

Company

Africa’s Leading Airline

South African Airways

Africa’s Leading Airline - Business Class

Kenya Airways

Africa’s Leading Airline - Economy Class

Ethiopian Airlines

Africa’s Leading Airport

Africa’s Leading Airport O.R. Tambo International Airport, Johannesburg

Africa’s Leading Boutique Hotel Brand

Mantis Collection

Africa’s Leading Business Car Rental Company

Avis

Africa’s Leading Business Hotel

Sandton Sun, South Africa

Africa’s Leading Business Travel Agency

FCm Travel Solutions

Africa’s Leading Car Hire

Europcar

Africa’s Leading Casino Resort

The Palazzo Montecasino, South Africa

Africa’s Leading City Hotel

Pepperclub Hotel & Spa, South Africa

Africa’s Leading Conference Hotel

The Westin Cape Town, South Africa

Africa’s Leading Destination

Cape Town

Africa’s Leading Golf Resort

Legend Golf & Safari Resort, South Africa

Africa’s Leading Hotel

La Mamounia, Marrakech, Morocco

Africa’s Leading Hotel Brand

Serena Hotels

Africa’s Leading Low-Cost Airline

Precision Air

Africa’s Leading Luxury Train

The Blue Train

Africa’s Leading Meetings & Conference Centre

International Convention Centre Durban, South Africa

Africa’s Leading Meetings & Conference Destination

Cape Town, South Africa

Africa’s Leading MICE Hotel

Safari Park Hotel & Casino, Kenya

The African Exhibition, Event and Conference Dawn

By Conrad Kullmann, Director at 3D Design

Graphic courtesy of UFI

I

f one were to look at a map of the world showing how much exhibition space was available in each country by using circles indicating square metres, one would see many circles all over the world, except on the largest continent - Africa.

The only circles you would see would be around South Africa. More and more international exhibition organisers are realising the potential for business expansion that lies in Africa. Most large exhibition organisers have already conquered Europe, China, India and America, successfully launching, hosting and establishing their worldwide shows.

Africa is truly the last frontier of the exhibition industry and those of us lucky enough to be in this industry are standing on the brink of an African exhibition awakening.

I have been in the industry for 19 years and have worked on most shows. Until recently the exhibition industry consisted of 98 percent local shows, organised by local companies. But in the last few months our industry has changed as international organisers have seen the potential for business growth in Africa. In a short space of time we have seen an influx of

international shows and organisers.

Automechanika and Grand Designs Live were the first - and granted, they established themselves a few years ago but more recently there has been Bauma, a large engineering and construction show, Fiera Milano has bought into The Good Food and Wine Show and is adding three new shows to its portfolio.

Reed Exhibitions has bought a majority share in Thebe Exhibitions and Projects.

Fespa, the largest signage show in the world, has partnered with Sign Africa and Montgomery has strengthened its ties with Specialised Exhibitions.

We have never experienced such an influx of international interest and investment in the exhibition industry. The exhibition and business world, I believe, is realising the potential of untapped business tourism in Africa. So too are some of the African governments such as Nigeria, which realises that they need exhibition centres to enable them to attract these type of exhibitions, events and conferences. In response to this they recently built the Eko Exhibition Centre in Lagos and more recently the Calabar

International Cnvention Centre in the south eastern part of the country.

The influx of investment in South Africa from international exhibition and event organisers is a clear indication of their commitment to establish a foothold in Africa from which they can grow their various brands. The rest of Africa - and not just Nigeria - has realised the potential of business tourism and we will see the development and financial commitment from many African governments in exhibition and convention centres to cater for this need.

In South Africa, as service suppliers to this industry, we are lucky enough to be right in the middle of this African tourism/ exhibition/event revolution. However, we must not rest on our laurels and must, as business owners, also realise the dangers of such a revolution.

So I leave you with one parting thought.

To everything there is a beginning and an end. Those who prepare for the beginning with the end in sight ensure the survival and sustainability of their business and all involved. There are many opportunities for all of us in this business. Be brave and think like our European counterparts.

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NEWS

South Africa’s Inaugural Travel & Tourism Summit Kicks Off

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ubbed, “The Summit”, the first South African Travel and Tourism Summit brought the previous SATTIC Conference and the Gauteng Tourism Summit together in mid-October. The conference’s aim was to create a definitive national platform for debate, top-level dialogue, networking, and engagement among the South African travel and tourism industry.

The conference is a joint initiative of the Tourism Business Council of South Africa (TBCSA), its affiliate associations, and Gauteng Tourism. This year’s event was sponsored by South African Tourism and the theme was “The Value of the Traveller”. The

Summit comes at a time when tourism is of utmost importance to the economy, having contributed R84.3 billion to the national GDP in 2011 and recording a 5% increase in that year. The tourism sector’s contribution to employment has also increased year on year, and the Summit provides a much-needed platform to consolidate this growth and improve competitiveness.

TBCSA CEO Mmatšatši Ramawela and Gauteng Tourism CEO Dawn Robertson said during an announcement that the conference would be,“a vital platform to enable a meeting of minds across the entire tourism value chain,” and that it was “absolutely vital in order to appreciate the

real value of the traveller and to achieve the objectives of the National Tourism Sector Strategy.”

The Summit highlighted the need to appreciate the value and contribution of the traveller when growing the industry.

It also focused on travel barriers, how “visitable” South Africa is as a leisure destination and the creation of decent and sustainable jobs. Among those who addressed the summit was leading trends commentator and CEO of Fluxtrend, Dion Chang, Chris Buckingham, Director of Go/ To.P.L from Melbourne, Australia and the Gauteng MEC for Economic Development, Eric Xayiya.

CTICC Scoops Imvelo Award for Responsible Tourism

By Cape Town International Convention Centre

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he Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) recently won the Imvelo Award for Responsible Tourism. The centre scooped the award for best Overall Environmental Management Systems implemented by a business.

Organised by the Federated Hospitality Association of Southern Africa (FEDHASA) in association with the National Department of Tourism, the awards, which has been running for twelve years, aims to recognise tourism businesses that have demonstrated world class sustained responsible practices into their operations.

According to CTICC Chief Executive Officer, Rashid Toefy, as an exhibition and convention centre committed to the highest standards of corporate governance and whose business principles are built on the core tenets of sustainability, winning this prestigious award is a great accolade and honour for the CTICC. “CTICC set itself the ambitious goal of being the best long haul international

As a world leader in sustainability the CTICC is continually raising the benchmark in terms of encouraging other organisations to be self-sustaining and be conscious about effecting change.

convention centre by 2020. For us it’s more about the journey and gaining this recognition is further testament to how far the centre has advanced in terms of becoming a thought leader in sustainability,” says Toefy.

The centre scooped the award for its commitment to implementing world class sustainability principles and practices into every facet of its operations. “On a daily basis the CTICC follows a multi-pronged approach to environmental sustainability and aims to reduce any negative impact its operations may have on the environment, while at the same time actively helping to conserve the planet and preserve it for future generations,” adds Toefy.

It is this commitment to effecting change that has led to the CTICC becoming the first convention centre in the world to have its sustainable initiatives aligned to the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) framework two years in a row. GRI is a global network-based organisation that produces a comprehensive international

sustainability reporting framework for leading organisations. The centre has also garnered international recognition for its sustainability commitment and recently scooped the UFI Best Reporting on Sustainability Award. In addition, the centre also achieved its Level 2 BBBEE certification as a result of its commitment to encouraging small business enterprise development.

“As a world leader in sustainability the CTICC is continually raising the benchmark in terms of encouraging other organisations to be self-sustaining and be conscious about effecting change,” concludes Toefy.

For more information contact Zeenat Parker, Corporate Communications Manager on Tel 021 410 5010 or 071 888 2623.

For details of the CTICC’s integrated sustainability approach, see the 2012 Sustainability Report at www.cticc.co.za.

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© www.sxc.hu

NEWS

American Express Forecasts 2014 Meetings Trends

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ccording to the American Express Meetings & Events 2014 Global Meetings Forecast, following two years of modest budget and activity increases, flat or slight declines in meetings spend per organization are expected across all regions heading into 2014.

Industry activity appears likely to stabilize due to a rise in meetings-related policies designed to ensure meetings comply with company guidelines and deliver against strategic objectives. Across all regions, meeting organizers will likely continue to face challenges as they strive to achieve more with flat or decreasing budgets expected, compared to previous years.

“Heading into 2014, meetings and

events will likely continue to remain critical drivers for organizations to align on strategic business objectives and effectively communicate with employees, customers and partners worldwide,” said Issa Jouaneh, Vice President and General Manager, American Express Meetings & Events.

“In an environment where budgets are expected to be challenging and the approval process for meetings will likely continue to be stringent, companies across all regions are reexamining their meetings strategies in order to achieve meeting objectives, increase efficiency and control costs.”

Looking to 2014, meeting planners surveyed for the 2014 American Express Meetings & Events Forecast revealed a number of key trends and identified

expectations across all regions: • Increasing Engagement through Social Media and Mobile Apps • Budget Controls Continue Local and Regional Meeting Trend • Meeting Approvals Becoming More Challenging • Group Fares • Non-Traditional Properties Considered for Events The findings are based on a survey, extensive meetings and events data, and interviews of meetings professionals – including planners, buyers and hotel suppliers from around the world – conducted

by American Express Meetings & Events.

Source: International Meetings Review

Sanganai/Hlanganai

By Nellia Nhauranwa, Manager International Media Relations

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he Sanganai/Hlanganai World Travel & Tourism Africa Fair 2013 was “a resounding success”. The sixth edition of the Fair, which was held from 10-12 October, welcomed international visitors and media from across the world.

Indications are that the Fair attendance surpassed last year’s event and the everincreasing demand for exhibition stands demonstrates the urgent need for investment in convention and exhibition facilities.

This year’s Fair pushed forward two issues: domestic tourism and MICE. Domestic tourism was given prominence at the expo as it accounts for up to 70% of the total earnings in tourism. As was clearly demonstrated during the MICE Business Forum, Zimbabwe has great potential to unlock value from this important form of business tourism. In this regard the need to expedite the finalisation of the MICE strategy and its subsequent implementation need not to be over emphasised.

Honourable Minister Walter Mzembi opened the expo with a speech welcoming visitors to the MICE Business Forum, after which Gary Grimmer, Chief Executive of Gaining Edge spoke, explaining why tapping into the MICE market is integral to the development of the country. “It’s a very complimentary, amazing step forward for Zimbabwe,” he said. “You’re bringing not only the thought leaders, but you’re bringing the

corporations that support them, supply and engage them. So you’re bringing investment opportunities to Zimbabwe. This gives you a chance to promote and showcase Zimbabwe’s innovation so that there’s a chance to create and forge research links and trade links – and it’s good for expertise development.”

The Sanganai MICE Tourism Business Forum featured multiple panels and interactive forums detailing the development of Zimbabwe’s MICE market. Spearheaded by top international leaders in the industry, the forums touched on several informative topics, from Africa’s economic transformation and policy directions on business events to conventions and exhibitions in Zimbabwe.

Moving forward, the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority (ZTA), parent Ministry and the tourism industry at large, aptly known as Team Tourism, will collectively advance favourable packages that will enable the full participation of the locals in the consumption and enjoyment of tourism products.

The 2014 edition of the Sanganai/ Hlanganani World Travel & Tourism Africa Fair will be held from the 9-11 of October 2014.

ZTA Chief Executive, Mr. Karikoga Kaseke

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Indications are that the Fair attendance surpassed last year’s event and the everincreasing demand for exhibition stands demonstrates the urgent need for investment in convention and exhibition facilities.

ZTA Chief Executive, Mr. Karikoga Kaseke

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© Shutterstock

World Travel & Trade Africa Fair a Success

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NEWS

Sports and Events Tourism Exchange

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he Sports and Events Tourism Exchange (SETE) that took place in October at the Durban International Convention Centre (ICC) plays a key role in promoting sports and tourism in South Africa and is aimed at positioning South Africa as a sport tourism destination. Sport tourism is one of the fastest growing areas of the global travel and tourism industry.

SETE provides a business-to-business platform bringing together businesses from the sports and tourism industries.

It showcases product offerings to the attending International Hosted Buyers and South African corporations specializing in sports and tourism, who would utilize their products for gatherings.

Now in its third year, SETE is aimed at positioning South Africa as a sports tourism destination. The conference and exhibition brings together businesses from the sports and tourism industries and encourages partnerships between the two sectors. This year the event hosts more international buyers than last year as international interest grows. Over sixty international buyers, particularly from emerging markets like China and India attended the event. They represent

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“ international sports federations looking for destinations and venues that have the capacity to host their events, sports tour operators that have an interest in bringing groups of sports tourists to South Africa, agents that represent national sports federations from northern hemisphere countries that will be looking for facilities in South Africa to use as training facilities for their athletes, and international event agencies that have an interest in hosting their event in South Africa.

Sugen Pillay, Business Development director of Thebe Exhibitions and Projects, which organises SETE, told The Event that this year SETE was the forum for debates on key issues impacting not just South Africa but the continent including South Africa hosting the next summer Olympic Games or Commonwealth Games and the role local government should play in supporting major events.

More than 10% of foreign tourists come to South Africa to watch or participate in sporting events, with spectators accounting for 60% to 80% of these arrivals. Because of this, the Southern African Tourism Services Association (SATSA) is exhibiting this year at the SETE exhibition & conference.

This year SETE was the forum for debates on key issues impacting not just South Africa but the continent including South Africa hosting the next summer Olympic Games or Commonwealth Games and the role local government should play in supporting major events.

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Grows

Organisers say SATSA realises that sports can never be separated from tourism and strives for professionalism and integrity within the Southern Africa inbound tourism Industry. SATSA is committed to the growth and recognition of this, for the benefit of its members and visitors.

Qochiwe Moyo, Communications Officer for SATSA says, “We provide tourism buyers with quality advice and information on credible tourism partners in Southern Africa whilst striving to set the highest standards in the Tourism Industry.

We believe that SETE provides us with the platform to ensure this.”

SETE is hosted by the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Economic Development and Tourism, partnered by CATHSSETA, SASCOC, Tourism KZN and Durban Tourism, Tsogo Sun and supported by Durban KZN Convention Bureau and the exclusive broadcasting partner SABC.

PROFILE

Invent Infrastructure was established with a clear vision to provide the finest quality furniture and catering equipment products and first class customer service. We, at Invent Infrastructure, specialise in hospitality furniture and catering equipment hire for events such as weddings, conferences, presentations, product launches, sporting events, country shows, air-shows, concerts, outdoor parties, etc.

Invent Infrastructure is a family-owned business and we are specialists in event management, wedding planning and co-ordination, décor and draping, hiring infrastructure, sound and lighting.

Within the impressive range of products available, Invent Infrastructure have a wide choice of chair styles that will suit all situations and requirements, from wood frame stacking chairs in a range of colours with interchangeable colour seat pads to sumptuous upholstered reception furniture.

Services • • • • • • • •

Party Equipment Kitchen Equipment Dressing Room Equipment Braai Equipment Hire Linen Hire Furniture Hire Cutlery & Crockery Hire Table & Chair Hire

Contact Details 8 Steenbras Road, Phillipi, Lansdowne, Cape Town t: +27 21 691 6423 m: +27 82 574 9022 e: allie@invent.co.za www.invent.co.za

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NEWS

EIBTM Welcomes Africa T “ We believe that it is Africa’s business potential, and the large increase in the number of corporate and business travellers placing outbound business into Africa that has stimulated the growth in the meetings industry on the continent.

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he EIBTM conference is back, hosted by the award-winning business and tourism destination Barcelona, Spain. The global three-day event for the meetings, incentives, conferences, events and business travel industry gathers over 15,000 MICE industry professionals.

It focuses on providing access to a dynamic business environment with over 3,100 exhibitors representing brands and suppliers from over 150 countries.

Exhibitors include international venues, hotels, destinations, technology, business travel and events services providers thought provoking professional education and business networking. This year, Africa is in the spotlight.

Graeme Barnett, Reed Travel Exhibitions, EIBTM Senior Event Director, told The Event that there has been a surge in interest in Africa at the event because the continent has one of the highest growth rates in the world. “We believe that it is Africa’s business potential, and the large increase in the number of corporate and business travellers placing outbound business into Africa that has stimulated the growth in the meetings industry on the continent,” said Graeme. This year the event has a dedicated Africa zone on the show floor to highlight the continent to the buyers so that they have high visibility at the show, alongside other key regions from across the globe. At least 161 exhibiting companies from Africa attended

EIBTM 2012, and Graeme hopes this year improves on that figure. “This is indeed a valuable opportunity for African exhibitors as 33% of Hosted Buyers at EIBTM 2012, who were responsible for organising meetings, specified a direct interest in placing business in Africa, highlighting the level of business opportunity available for exhibiting companies attending the show,” says Graeme.

EIBTM takes place from 19-21 November, with an opening session scheduled to take place on Monday the

18th. That session – or EIBTM Forum – will be facilitated by Nadine Dereza and will set the tone for the next three days. The expo is set to take place at the Fira Montjuic exhibition centre in Barcelona’s city centre.

It opens at 9am with Knowledge and Education seminars running parallel to exhibition floor hours. In short, 20 minute slots, various speakers and panels will cover all manner of MICE-related issues from digital marketing tips and industry forecasts to and risk-taking, decisionmaking and meetings design. Also on the list are selected Spanish speakers, as well as a seminar delving into the success of TED as a brand.

New Genius Zones, Innovation and Relaxation Zones have also been included in this year’s programme, as well as Exhibitor and Hosted Buyer events, which are specially tailored for networking purposes. And if that isn’t enough, EIBTM have allocated specific networking times for each day and will be hosting a ‘Club Night’ on the second evening at upmarket restaurant and club, Opium Mar. For more information visit: www.eibtm.com www.opiummar.com

Meetings Africa Bigger and Better in 2014 people who are renowned in their industry and regarded as experts in their particular field.

How will Meetings Africa 2014 build on the success of 2013?

Amanda Kotze-Nhlapo

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he South African National Convention Bureau is preparing for Meetings Africa 2014, which takes place in February. The Event spoke to Amanda Kotze-Nhlapo, Executive Manager at the South African National Convention Bureau (SANCB), about how the SANCB plans to build on the success of last year’s event.

What do you expect to be the highlights of Meetings Africa 2014?

Meetings Africa has established itself as the continent’s premier, and most inclusive, business events trade platform and exhibition.

There is always a challenge when hosting annual shows to make the next one better than the last. Meetings Africa is no different. We are hard at work to ensure that the show is what it proclaims to be: informative, connecting people and making business happen.

For starters, we have a wider digital footprint now: whereas before most of the marketing collateral was provided in hard print, next year we move to digital format. Signage around the venue will also be digital. We have introduced digital touch screens that will allow users an opportunity to search for information.

From a media perspective, there will also be a high level media panel discussion. Panellists for this have yet to be confirmed but it will

We are working for a bigger and better Meetings Africa 2014 with buyers from all over the continent, as well as globally. We have a stringent selection process to ensure that the hosted buyers meet the criteria set. This ensures we have the right buyers in attendance as opposed to a large pool of people who are not properly qualified. And of course, to ensure that it is as Pan-African as we’re asserting, we aim to have more buyers and exhibitors from the continent.

How many international hosted buyers attended in 2013? How many are you expecting in 2014?

At Meetings Africa 2013, we hosted a record number of buyers: 350 in total, representing 23 markets outside of South Africa. Of this, 147 were international buyers. This year, we aim to exceed this number and have set an ambitious target to reach one thousand buyers.

To achieve this, we are partnering with the Unique Speakers Bureau International (USB) who will host a one day local corporate buyers programme. This programme will connect all corporate clients, conference and event planners with major global and local players.

It will also offer guidance in terms of the best speakers with the best subjects for your conference, and insights as to how to maximise the experience to ensure sustained interest and repeat visitors.

How do you think Meetings Africa 2014 will help achieve the goal of “Advancing Africa Together”?

Meetings Africa is not a SANCB show nor is it a South African Tourism’s show, or the Department of Tourism’s show. It is South Africa’s show and Africa’s show our platform to show the world everything this incredible country and continent have to offer. We made the decision to keep the theme the same, as together with the new campaign strategy, Rise with Us, we will communicate clearly our intention of bringing the continent together to grow our share of regional, continental and global market. We are working closely with our counterparts on the continent to encourage them to register and attend the show.

Anything you would like to add?

Meetings Africa is a pan-African exhibition, making it the best and most comprehensive place to meet the widest range of exhibitors from across Africa. It’s also the best exhibition for business event service and product suppliers to do business with more than 300 buyers from Africa and around the world.

Buyer and exhibitor registration is open and we encourage exhibitors to register and be part of Africa’s leading and most business-focussed exhibition for the business events industry.

For more information visit www.meetingsafrica.co.za Follow us on Twitter @SA_NCB If you are a buyer and would like to register to attend Meetings Africa 2014 or make a query, send an email to tshepo@southafrica.net All exhibitors wishing to attend Meetings Africa 2014 send an email to daksha@meetingsafrica.co.za Meetings Africa 2014 takes place in the Sandton Convention Centre, Johannesburg from February 24 to 26. Do not miss it.

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FEATURE

Party Planning for Every Taste and Budget

By Lesley Stones

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FEATURE

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For an evening event the bar bill doubles so corporate lunchtime events are a trend. People can only drink until about 3pm before they feel hung over, and they’re a little more well behaved at lunchtime.

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orporate budgets for end-ofyear parties have been cut back further than ever this year.

I know that because it’s October, and so far there isn’t a single party invite in my inbox. So any article looking at the trends in year-end party planning must start with the unavoidable fact that money is being used wisely.

Research among party planners, venues, caterers and entertainment organisers reveals a couple of clear trends as well as several opposing trends, confirming that there is no right way or wrong way to celebrate.

Everyone agrees that budgets have been slashed to the degree that many companies have cancelled corporate events completely, scaled down to a lunch instead of an evening bash, or go ahead but urge the organisers to be gentle with them.

Many companies are opting for a lunch rather than a dinner to avoid an excessive booze bill, says Karla Oettler, the founder of event organiser Absolute Collection in Cape Town.

“For an evening event the bar bill doubles so corporate lunchtime events are a trend. People can only drink until about 3pm before they feel hung over, and they’re a little more well behaved at lunchtime,” Karla says. “If people don’t pay for their booze they tend to put it down and walk away, and booze is your biggest expense.

You should limit the bar account because I see people wasting your money every day.”

Lunch can also be a better option because many employees don’t want to socialise with their workmates anyway, and are more likely to attend a lunch than an evening shindig.

“You need to bring in something that they haven’t seen before,” Karla says.

One popular idea is Ice Cream Ninjas, a company that turns serving an ice cream into a show.

Although party planners may think that has become too commonplace, Karla points out that 85% of people at a year-end function rarely go to such events, so for them candy bars are a novelty.

“Things are becoming a lot more interactive,” she adds. “We are bringing in things like charcuterie stands where the supplier chats to the guests. We are also bringing in a lot of pairings like bubbly and nougat so it’s more informal, although you can still make it sophisticated to appeal to a broad section of people.” Buffets are definitely out of fashion, Karla says. “We haven’t done a buffet for years – people don’t like standing up for their food.” It is also important to offer vegetarian and Halaal options now, she adds.

Karen Short, the owner of catering company By Word of Mouth, says a current favourite is a popcorn station, where guests help themselves to a cone filled with gourmet

On The Food Front Food is the one area where Karla urges companies not to cut back, although rising prices mean something that cost R280 a head a couple of years ago now costs about R360.

One way to economise is by having dessert stations like candy bars or waffle stations instead of a plated dessert, which often goes to waste as guests leave or start to dance. These food stations are becoming a massive trend, adding a playful touch and allowing guests to mix more easily than they can around a formal table.

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FEATURE

popcorn flavours like truffle, chilli, lime and sesame and even salted caramel. Tacos and Tequila, blinis and vodka, champagne and smoked salmon combinations also make great party stations.

Interactive food stations are hugely popular, agrees Warwick Thomas, the Executive Chef of Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC).

At a nacho station, for example, the chef can prepare the mince in advance then pop it on the nacho and chop up the avocado as the guests watch. “It’s an interactive experience so the guests are learning as

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they have their meal cooked for them.”

Setting up enough chef stations to feed a full party isn’t necessarily cheaper than a sit-down dinner, but it’s more fun and the informality is so attractive that about 50% of corporate functions are requesting serving stations rather than plated meals.

Warwick says companies should budget R250 to R300 per head whether it’s for service stations or plated meals, but the stations generate less waste, which ups the feel-good factor.

At a recent dinner for 1,000, the CTICC set up various different food stands,

including sushi, nachos, fajitas and potato bars, while waiters did the rounds with canapés including miniature portions of fish and chips.

“You still get traditional three course dinners but even those are changing to different kinds of foods,” Warwick says.

“Different ingredients are coming back into fashion. Nobody has eaten beetroot for 10 years but that’s making a come back, and lentils and millet are being incorporated into salads.”

Sit-down dinners are also enjoying some interactive elements and waiter showmanship. Warwick recently served steaks under individual cloches that were whisked away to reveal a cloud of smoke, adding a wow factor that kept guests talking.

“Buffets are old hat but they’re not completely gone, and they’re also more interactive now,” he adds. Instead of queuing to scoop food out of large serving dishes, small portions are already served up in bamboo cases or individual dishes so guests can grab one and move on.

Artisanal food such as cheeses, homemade breads and pickles are also popular, with white strawberries and square watermelons also popping up to give food an unexpected funky factor. Unusual teas are also hugely popular, with serving stations brewing up a wide selection to give once-dull drink a wow factor.

There’s also a trend to serve more vegetables, Warwick says. Serving a big hunk of meat and two peas has been edged out by a 50-50 ratio of meat to veg.

James Khoza, the Executive Chef of Sandton Convention Centre in Johannesburg, is seeing a trend away from classic French cuisine to more novel influences from different countries. The Joburg take on that is leading to a revival in four or five-course menus.

James has also noticed a trend towards healthier, lighter and more nutritious meals and offering a larger variety of food, like more veg to accompany the meat. “In addition, clients are increasingly demanding innovation in how food is presented, he says. The need to accommodate a vast range of individual preferences now sees its kitchens stocked with a variety of alternative options, including carob, wheat grass, low GI, and gluten-free choices.

FEATURE In the endless quest to stage something different, people are looking for an unusual venue that will create a wow factor by itself.

In Cape Town the hottest venue of the moment is The Lookout, a glass marquee in the V&A Waterfront with 360° views of the city. Madame Zingara’s is another popular choice, giving companies a readymade event that has people talking for weeks, without the company itself needing to plan very much at all.

Finding a venue that’s a talking point is also cheaper than having to create something memorable from scratch, Karla says. But it’s important that the venue is handy as guests don’t want to drive far. Organising a shuttle bus isn’t a good idea either, as it’s expensive and people get annoyed if they have to hang around waiting for the bus to fill.

Yet efforts to find new and different venues haven’t dented trade at the CTICC, says Warwick. The trick is to make it look like a new venue every time through the clever use of draping and lighting and in

“

In the endless quest to stage something different, people are looking for an unusual venue that will create a wow factor by itself.

“

Location, Location, Location

how you present the food, he says.

But perception plays a role too, and Durban International Convention Centre hosts few year-end functions because event organisers incorrectly assume they need at least 1,000 guests, says its communications specialist Scott Langley.

The hotels in Durban win most of the corpoate year-end trade, even though the

Convention Centre’s Executive Chef, John Moatshe, recently won the prestigious Chaîne des Rôtisseurs Brass Plaque, presented by the international gastronomic society for superb cuisine and hospitality.

Corporate Gifts Corporate gifts have definitely fallen from favour, and Karla is happy to see them go. She recommends buying something that guests can use on the night, like cigars, rather than something they are supposed to take home, but will probably forget. “Spend the money on the experience rather than something people are going to chuck away,” she says.

A popular alternative gift is a photo booth on the way in so guests can pick up their picture on the way out. Hiring a photography company costs around R4,000 or R5,000 and makes a bigger impression than a salad bowl, she says.

Corporate gifts have definitely been given the chop, Warwick agrees. “Rather take that money and put it into the entertainment for the evening or add it to the beverage bill,” he urges.

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

FEATURE Entertain Me In the past, corporate events were characterised by several speeches followed by a band. Now speeches are disappearing and guests are being entertained by perhaps a violinist or flame thrower as they enter, dinner at interactive stations then a band or a comedian to end with.

The trend is definitely to have several diverse attractions rather than one main act, says Warwick. That can work out more expensive but it gives a far better guest experience. “Everyone in your audience will be thinking that’s a great experience rather than listening to someone waffling on.”

Elaborate table centrepieces are also fast disappearing. The money can better be used on the food, rather than an ornate creation that blocks everyone’s views across the table.

To Theme or not to Theme Many corporate functions used to have a theme, but that has fallen from favour and people are instead looking for a venue that’s an experience on its own, says Karla.

Themes that require guests to dress up still happen occasionally, but it has to be something they can manage easily, like a James Bond evening, because guests don’t want to spend

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money buying or hiring an outfit.

Themes like a seafood dinner or a Greek evening are not big any more, Warwick agrees, but there is a trend to invoke a theme based on something the organiser has seen on TV. He cites the example of a dinner designed to replicate some stunning foody creations rustled up on TV by chef Gordon Ramsay.

In contrast, Karen of By Word of Mouth believes themed events with coordinated food, drinks and décor are more popular than ever. Again that involves ‘stations’ where guests help themselves to food, drinks and the requisite dressing-up accessories.

Karla says companies are cost-cutting on the sound and light systems, and opting for good enough rather than flashy. It’s even more economical to do away with a stage act completely. “A live band can cost R45,000, so rather give them a DJ who gets people on the dance floor as soon as possible, because a DJ is still live entertainment and when people walk away they talk about the entertainment and the food.”

Sandton Convention Centre’s Operations Manager Debra De Soua is noticing a shift away from DJs and a preference for live local entertainment. That’s great news for South African artists as party planners are looking for a live band, a comedian or theatrical events, and cost cuts mean they are booking local artists rather than international acts, she says.

FEATURE

“

Now speeches are disappearing and guests are being entertained by perhaps a violinist or flame thrower as they enter, dinner at interactive stations then a band or a comedian to end with.

“

Décor Pizzazz Décor is a key element of any function, Debra says. This year she has noticed a trend for events to move away from the corporate look and feel to a more minimalistic and elegant atmosphere.

“Clients are focusing on sensory perception, ensuring that they appeal to all five senses through décor, entertainment and the food and beverage offering,” she says. Technical support plays its part by creating the mood, so there is an emphasis on lighting and sound to further engage the senses.

Colour-wise, don’t expect anything too garish as the year draws to a close. “Neutrals are back,” Debra says. “Clients are selecting more neutral tones like grey, stone and monochromatic colour schemes; all working to enhancing the moods they wish to create for their desired event experience.”

“PRO” SPECTIVE

Investing in Convention Centres Why “The Wrong Reasons” May Just Be the Right Ones

By Rod Cameron - AIPC Sandton Convention Centre

E

very once in a while we see indignant news items about why investment in a convention centre is in the worst possible interests of a particular city. Although they may be from anywhere, they have a remarkably consistent formula: They are generally initiated in reaction to some kind of announcement, reported by local media who can always use some controversy, and often supported by sage comments from critics whose existence depends on them reliably having something bad to say about these kinds of investments. As ammunition, they typically draw on data that has been selectively assembled to show the worst possible consequences for any destination dumb enough to build or expand a centre “for the wrong reasons.”

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So what are those reasons, and what exactly makes them “wrong?” Interestingly enough, the best arguments in favour of centre development can often be found in the kinds of reasoning put forward as to why centres are a bad idea – and for that, we need look no further than the articles themselves, which display a startlingly consistent list of negatives.

They cost too much. They don’t meet their financial or business projections. There’s already an oversupply. Oh, and by the way, all that money would be best spent elsewhere.

Collectively, a seemingly insurmountable assembly of negatives that any politician would only contest at their peril. But the answers to these criticisms generally hold the key to why so many destinations are looking at centre investment or re-investment in the first place.

Let’s Look at a Few Examples They’re not profitable They’re not supposed to be. If they were, private investors would be building them and we could forget about this whole discussion. What they’re intended to do is attract incremental business into the city that will generate economic benefits beyond the centre itself. As a result, they’re only unprofitable if you ignore the broader economic benefit they generate, which, while they may not go to the centre’s own bottom line, are nevertheless very real and inevitably re-captured in part via the incremental tax revenues that result – something easily calculated. The government (and therefore the community) still gets the revenue, and weren’t they the ones that paid for the facility

“PRO” SPECTIVE

Cape Town International Convention Centre

in the first place?

To ignore the broader economic impacts generated by a centre is to misunderstand the reason they were built in the first place – yet that’s what a simple profit /loss analysis does.

Well, yes, but community facilities like hospitals, schools and recreation facilities should be the priority for government investment Hard to disagree – but that’s the whole point. All those community amenities have to be financed – and if as a taxpayer you’d rather not take the whole hit yourself, a facility like a convention centre that generates non – resident income which can be used to support those amenities seems like a pretty good idea. In short, a centre is an investment whose returns help support all those other things you’d like but that can’t (or shouldn’t) support themselves with their own user fees.

They’re built for non-resident delegates and don’t serve the local community Not unless you count generating visitor revenues, supporting the business and academic communities, attracting global expertise, promoting knowledge transfer, creating educational opportunities and…. um, what was the question again? While it may be convenient to ignore these broader benefits simply because they’re not as easy to measure, they are in fact the real reasons business events take place and the host community generally gets a large proportion of the resulting spin-off.

But there’s also the fact that a centre forms an important part of the capabilities a community has for accommodating its own events, including everything from local trade and consumer shows to banquets and community celebrations. And these are not theoretical roles – they make up a big part of the actual usage centres see throughout the world, and are as legitimate as any other kind of use.

There are better ways to stimulate economic development: Really? And what would those be? Most cities in hot pursuit of new investment (read: economic development) spend enormous amounts of money on development agencies, who in turn spend it on trying to attract decision makers, expose them to relevant business opportunities and encourage them to think about locating and/or investing in the community.

But wait a minute: this is pretty much what is happening in a convention centre any time a major national or international event is in town – delegates are much more likely to be decision-making business, professional and academic people than any other category of visitors.

Furthermore, these prospects are actually paying the vast majority of their own way – even a subsidized centre is still recovering by far the largest proportion of their operating cost from users – which is a lot more than you can say about many other approaches to attracting new investment via more traditional economic developments strategies.

The bottom line A centre is seldom going to be a moneymaker in itself but is almost always a net revenue generator for the overall community when total benefits are taken into account.

If at the same time it delivers the kind of educational, knowledge, investment and academic support described above, and does so largely on the basis of revenues earned at least partly from non-residents, that’s a pretty good investment.

What this means is that the thing that most critics focus on – whether or not a centre is profitable in itself – is actually the least important part of the equation. What’s far more important is that the owner has a good plan in place to maximize the broader benefits it generates in terms of helping advance their community and economic agendas while the users pay the lion’s share of the costs.

Is investment in a convention centre the right choice for every community?

Absolutely not – but neither is it always the wrong one, and those that suggest this are doing a huge disservice to those that have the potential and the plan to make it work for them. Critics have both a right and a responsibility to question and even challenge public investment – after all, it’s often their money. But there’s also a responsibility to listen to the answers – because they may illustrate why “the wrong reasons” are actually the right ones.

AIPC represents a global network of over 170 leading centres in 54 countries with the active involvement of more than 850 managementlevel professionals worldwide. It is committed to encouraging and recognizing excellence in convention center management, based on the diverse experience and expertise of its international representation, and maintains a variety of educational, research, networking and standards programs to achieve this. AIPC also celebrates and promotes the essential role of the international meetings industry in supporting economic, academic and professional development and enhancing global relations amongst highly diverse business and cultural interests.

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COUNTRY SPOTLIGHT

Northern Africa A Business Events Bounty

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orth Africa is currently known as a place of revolution, where the people are fighting for their rights. But before the Egyptian and Tunisian uprisings, it was – and still is – a sunny place on the Mediterranean coast. A land where exotic bursts of flavour and colour enhance any business event. It is a popular tourist destination, with World Heritage sites like the ancient Phoenician city of Carthage, Maadid – the first capital of emirs built in 1007, and the Roman ruins of Volubilis. The option of luxury accommodation and a variety of adventure sports make it that much more appealing.

What’s Happening Now Algeria’s Food & Décor Expos are set to take place in November at the Safex Exhibition Centre. These attract over 11,000 visitors each, with up to 140 exhibitors. The four-day Décor Expo hosts over a hundred international companies and has become an open market especially for furniture, décor and textile goods. The Food Expo is

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the sole specialized exhibition of this kind in this region and features a multitude of speciality stands, from food technologies and agriculture to sectorial products and services. Its ultimate goal is that Algerian people will be able to experience other cultures’ tastes.

Key Venues OFEC: Casablanca Offices of Fairs & Expositionss – Morocco Located opposite the majestic Hassan II Mosque near the seaside, the Offices of Fairs & Expositions provides vast spaces for exhibitions and trade fairs. It has one large hall measuring 20,000 square metres, as well as an outdoor exhibition space of 16,000 square metres. (www.en.ofec.ma ) Cairo International Convention Centre – Egypt This is the country’s only comprehensive conference centre, with a whopping 30 hectares including 58,000 square metres

offering state of the art conference facilities. It is a ten minute drive from Cairo International Airport, close to several five star hotels and a five minute walk from the Cairo International Exhibition Grounds.

Parc des Expositions du Kram – Tunisia There are three major exhibition centres in Tunisia, but the Parc des Expositions Du Kram is by far the largest and most modern. It offers around 35,000 square metres of exhibition space which includes an International Trade Centre, an outdoor exhibition area and three multi-purpose exhibition halls. The parking facility accommodates about 1,000 vehicles and is situated near a host of hotels and amenities.

Centre des Conventions d’Oran – Algeria The Convention Centre of Oran is an immense building with 20,000 square meters of exhibition space and 54 offices and fully-equipped meeting rooms. It also has two restaurants, a large lobby and an

Morocco © Karol Kozlowski, Shutterstock

area of 1,240 square metres which is ideal for small events. (www.ccoran.com)

Getting to North Africa

by Air Morocco, Tunisia and Egypt all have national airlines which provide for intercontinental and in-country trips.

Morocco has three main international airports, as well as 21 national airports connecting visitors to Europe and the rest of the country. Tunisair connects travellers to European and Middle Eastern spots.

Algeria does not have a national airline, however there are 42 airports, five of which are located in major cities.

Population Morocco – 32,649,130 Tunisia – 10,835,873 Algeria – 38,087,812 Egypt – 85,294,388 Total: 166,867,203 July 2013, CIA World Factbook

Climate

Festivals in North Africa

Northern Africa is hot, but with four recognisable seasons. The temperatures are usually mild and Mediterranean near the coastal areas, with Saharan desert temperatures across the southernmost regions of Morocco and Algeria and throughout most of Egypt. Temperate, agricultural areas can be found in Morocco and Algeria’s interior. These are peppered with bitterly cold winters and very hot summers due to the Atlas Mountain Range spanning across the region.

Algeria, Morocco, Tunisia Med-IT (IT & communication) www.xcom.fr Algeria SIVA Best 5 www.best5algeria.com Tunisia Pamed (animal and agricultural) www.pamed-expo.com Tunisia Texmed Tunisia www.texmed-tunisia.com Egypt MS Africa & Middle East www.msafrica.net Egypt Egy Stitch & Tex Int’l Exhibition www.egystitchandtex.com Morocco Madecor Expo www.madecorexpo.com Morocco Mafex www.mafex-morocco.com

You Need to Know About Don’t forget to pack a two-prong adaptor when travelling through North Africa. Most of the region uses a Type C plug and socket, usually at 220 volts. The adaptor should work with most cellphone chargers, laptops and other small electronic devices, but a transformer might be required for operating anything larger.

Did you know?

The Gnaoua People of North and West Africa originated in the ancient Ghanaian Empire of Ouagadougou – present day Mauritania, Senegal, Gambia, Burkino Faso and 85% of Mali.

They are an ethic group who have, in recent years, become part of the Moroccan Sufi order.

Every year, in the small, seaside town of Essaouira, the Gnaoua World Music Festival takes place. Colourful and exciting, it rouses the spirit, with “maalems” – teachers – providing rhythms and chants you simply cannot ignore. This unique festival sees up to 500,000 visitors each year, with international acts in jazz, pop, rock and contemporary world music.

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Tunisia © Paul Fell, Shutterstock

COUNTRY SPOTLIGHT

PROFILE

With its commitment to high quality, superior service and linking up with the global market, MMI South Africa (Pty) Ltd, drawing on its abundant resources, stages unequalled trade fairs. It presents customers with international platforms of exchange and exhibition.

MMI South Africa (Pty) Ltd has accumulated valuable experience from Germany, China and India in the organization and staging of trade fairs. Establishing itself in an emerging African market, MMI South Africa (Pty) Ltd continuously strives for the levels of excellence and innovation set by Messe M端nchen International, our parent company, to guide the development of African trade fairs in a specialised and internationalised direction.

Based on our professional market experience and superior exhibition capabilities, we unfailingly provide quality service to our customers. We make every possible effort to ensure smooth business flow, quality control and staff competence. We maintain a close relationship with media, governments and trade associations to further help our customers succeed.

Contact Details Johannesburg Office 1st Floor, Kiepersol House, Stonemill Office Park 300 Acacia Road, Darrenwood 2194 Randburg t: +27 11 476-8093 f: +27 11 478 4323 e: info@mmi-southafrica.co.za www.mmi-southafrica.co.za

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REGIONAL SPOTLIGHT

Palace of Justice © Rudi Venter - Shutterstock

Tshwane Capital of the Rainbow Nation

F

ormerly known as Pretoria, The City of Tshwane is the capital of South Africa. It has a vibrant history, diverse economy, and boasts many significant landmarks, heritage sites and places of cultural significance. It is home to the Union Buildings, the official seat of the South African Government, with all national government departments located within the area. As a result of being the country’s administrative and economic hub, Tshwane caters particularly well to business travellers, providing access to world-class conference and hospitality facilities.

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Flickr © Jorge

REGIONAL SPOTLIGHT

CSIR International Convention Centre

which can accommodate large-scale indoor exhibitions, music concerts, or sporting events. Styled to the latest global standards, the Tshwane Events Centre’s main arena can accommodate 25 000 people.

What’s Happening Now The 9th Disability Trade & Lifestyle Exhibition and Conference This event is the only expo and conference of its kind in South Africa. The theme of this year’s event “Careers at Disability” provides attendees the opportunity to exhibit and recruit people with disabilities. This year’s exhibition and conference takes place at the Johannesburg Expo Centre (Nasrec) from 7-9 November. For more information visit: www. saslha.co.za

Key Venues CSIR International Convention Centre The CSIR is situated close to central amenities in Pretoria and is easily accessible from all major routes in Gauteng. It offers world-class facilities and service with conference, function and exhibition venues. Situated in tranquil, park-like grounds in the eastern suburbs of Pretoria, it is host to over 700 events a year.

Tshwane Events Centre Tshwane Events Centre (formerly known as the Pretoria Show Grounds) boasts eleven exhibition halls varying in size,

SANParks South African National Parks represents the indigenous fauna and flora landscapes and associated cultural heritage of the country.

National parks offer visitors diverse range of adventure tourism opportunities including game viewing, bush walks, canoeing, and exposure to cultural and historical experiences.

Conferences can also be organised in many of the parks. The parks include: Groenkloof, Kruger, Marakele, Golden Gate, Camdeboo, Mountain Zebra, Addo Elephant, Garden Route National Park.

Getting to the Northern Cape by Air The City of Tshwane is served by OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg and Lanseria, a privately owned international airport that is situated to the north west of Johannesburg. Wonderboom Airport in the north of Pretoria services light commercial and private aircrafts.

Population 2,921,488 in 2011 according to Statistics South Africa (www. beta2.statssa.gov.za)

Climate Tshwane has a moderately dry subtropical climate with long, hot, and rainy summers and short, cool, and dry winters. The average annual temperature is 18.7 °C. This is rather high considering its relatively high altitude (1350 metres) and is due mainly to its sheltered valley position, which acts as a heat trap.

Between November and February summer thunderstorms produce flashes of lightning and brief but torrential afternoon downpours.

Summer days are hot, though rarely to the point of discomfort.

You Need to Know About Tshwane has played a key role in the political history of South Africa. The liberation struggle culminated in the birth of South Africa’s democracy at the Union Buildings in Pretoria when the people’s President, Nelson Mandela, was inaugurated as South Africa’s first democratically elected president on 10 May,1994.

Did you know?

The City of Tshwane houses the second largest number of embassies in the world. It is home to 40 embassies, after Washington DC in the United States with 176 embassies.

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EVENT GREENING

Eco Centric Cuisine Roadmap to Sustainable Foodservice •

T

he Hospitality foodservice industry is a growing market within the South African economy, but, it is also one of the most wasteful and energy intensive industry sectors. For this reason the hospitality industry needs to start a movement towards sustainable foodservice and practice responsible tourism.

Sustainability is good for business and the planet. Sustainable fish, ethical meat and dairy, recycled waste, energy efficiency, water conservation and more can make a huge difference on issues of climate change.

Fact is that we have: • 45% of total landfill waste is generated by the foodservice industry • 9% of the global fish species are extinct • 75% of global fish resources are over exploited

South African maize crop is largely produced from GMO produced seedlings • South Africa is using more than 20 million cattle a year to feed its population and can run out of drinking water by 2040. In 80 years global vegetable seed varieties have reduced from 3879 to 307 Vegetable crops and animal farming are being produced with, synthetic or chemical fertilizers, weeds are controlled with chemical herbicides and insecticides are being used to manage pest and disease. Hormone drugs being used to accelerate growth processes.

Genetically Modified seedlings are produced to meet volume demand, these are just some examples and reasons why we need to steer proactively the drive towards sustainable foodservice and a healthy living environment.

When making your food choices it is important to consider the whole ‘life cycle’ of the product, and not simply in isolation. The best options are to buy local and seasonal food, preferably organic and definitely harvested sustainably. Other considerations

range of speakers presenting on topics around the theme of Responsible Tourism.

Date: Monday, 24 February 2014 Venue: Sandton Convention Centre Time: 09h00 – 13h00 For more information, please visit www.eventgreening.co.za/events.

World Travel Awards – Green Winners Africa’s Leading Eco Hotel Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge, Kenya Africa’s Leading Eco-Lodge Il Ngwesi Lodge, Kenya Africa’s Leading Green Hotel The Aberdare Country Club, Kenya

EGF Conference to Focus on Responsible Tourism The Event Greening Forum will be hosting their 2014 Conference at Meetings Africa, with a

Cape Town Networking Learn about sustainable food service for events from the Keynote Speaker, Gunther Beissel from Eco Chef, when you attend the EGF networking lunch. All guests will also receive a complimentary ticket to the Green Expo.

Date: Friday, 29 November 2013 Venue: CTICC Time: 12h30 – 14h00 Cost: Complimentary for members, R150 for non-members To RSVP or for more information, please visit http://eventgreening.co.za/events/.

Thank you to the CTICC for sponsoring the venue and catering for this event!

should include the support of ethical and fairtrade producers, as well as SMEs. Patrons today associate a “good” restaurant with their sustainability initiatives. For support around how to do this, contact ECO Chef.

ECO Chef cc Sustainable Foodservice Contact: Günther Beissel on: 031 5694542, 0727231961 Email: gfb@ecochef.co.za www.ecochef.co.za

Early Bird 2014 Membership Special The EGF is offering an early bird 2014 membership special to any new members who join the organisation now. Please contact pippa@eventgreening.co.za for more information on this.

The benefits of membership can e summarised as follows: • Use of the EGF logo • A listing on the EGF website as a preferred event greening supplier • Access to information on event greening • Discounted rates for event greening training and events • Networking opportunities For more information, contact Pippa Naudé on +27 11 447 4777 or pippa@eventgreening.co.za.

Alternatively, visit www.eventgreening.co.za

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EVENTS

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EVENTS

AFRICAN OGANISATION FOR RESEARCH AND TRAINING IN CANCER 24 Nov Durban, South Africa MAMAMAGIC: THE BABY EXPO 28 Nov-1 Dec Johannesburg, South Africa

November THE GREEN EXPO IN ASSOCIATION WITH NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC CHANNEL 1-3 Nov Johannesburg, South Africa CHEMEXPO AFRICA 6-7 Nov Johannesburg, South Africa DISCOP AFRICA 6-8 Nov Johannesburg, South Africa INGETREX DR CONGO 2013 6-9 Nov Kinshasa, Congo

DISABILITY TRADE & LIFESTYLE EXHIBITION AND CONFERENCE 7-9 Nov Johannesburg, South Africa

THE GREEN EXPO 29 -30 Nov Cape Town, South Africa

LOOK GOOD & FEEL GOOD EXPO 8-10 Nov Johannesburg, South Africa

CHOCOLATE & CANDY EXPO 30 Nov Cape Town, South Africa

AFRICACOM/AFRICAST 12-14 Nov Cape Town, South Africa

AFRICAN FRANCOPHONE AWARDS� SOUTH AFRICA 2013 30 Nov Johannesburg, South Africa

WORLD ASSOCIATION OF ANTI DOPING IN SPORT (WADA) 2013 12-15 Nov Johannesburg, South Africa

December

AWARDS 4 BEST PRACTICE: SUSTAINABILITY, SOCIAL ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT 17-20 Nov Johannesburg, South Africa MODERN AIRPORTS AFRICA 2013 18-21 Nov Nairobi, Kenya AFRICAN OGANISATION FOR RESEARCH AND TRAINING IN CANCER 21-24 Nov Durban, South Africa ATF TRADE EXHIBITION 20-22 Nov Cape Town, South Africa

NATIONAL CHOIR FESTIVAL 3-8 Dec Durban, South Africa 17TH ICASA CONFERENCE 8-11 Dec Cape Town, South Africa BEST OF INDIA 18-29 Dec Cape Town, South Africa AL-ANSAAR SOUK 2013 20 Dec-2 Jan 2014 Durban, South Africa

Steenhuis © Jess Novotná

CHINA SOURCING FAIR 7-9 Nov Johannesburg, South Africa

2013 DURBAN MOTOR SHOW 8-10 Nov Durban, South Africa

HOLI FESTIVAL OF COLOURS 2013 WORLD TOUR 28 Dec Durban, South Africa

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INDUSTRY MOVES

Appointment of New Sales Manager

at the Tshwane Events Centre

Minister of Tourism Recognises the CSIR ICC Environmental Practices The CSIR International Convention Centre (CSIR ICC) won the National Tourism Lilizela Award for best single resource – waste management.

The Lilizela Awards are aimed at recognising establishments in the tourism industry with best social, economic and environmental practices.

“We constantly lookout for innovative ways to curb any negative environmental footprint brought about by our business operations. Such recognition of our efforts by the Minister and his team is the affirmation we need to continue making a difference in our communities” says Snedz, CSIR ICC Facilities Manager.

Having recently included a local Tshwane school in its community outreach project by providing them with waste management training, the CSIR ICC is clearly making huge sustainability strides in its industry and imparting its knowledge with communities in which it operates.

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The Tshwane Events Centre says it is proud to announce the appointment of its first black manager: Ms Ntombikayise Rewu who has been appointed as Sales Manager.

Ntombikayise will be responsible for the rental sales division of The Tshwane Events Centre, as well as the key account customer relations for the centre.

Ntombikayise who has diligently worked her way up the corporate ladder within Tshwabac successfully, in a number of roles has always demonstrated her abilities, charisma and inclination for business over the past 10 years with the company.

Over the years at Tshwabac she has

acquired and excelled in a wide spectrum of sales and eventing experience, from event stand sales to large venue rental contracts.

In addition she has proven her metal several times in event planning and project management initiatives for clients, pulling off some real challenges flawlessly and with ease.

Customers can look forward to her unique brand of personal care, professionalism and friendly disposition that will be reflected in her staff and department.

Ntombi can be contacted at 012 327 1487 or by email Ntombi@tshwabac.co.za

Durban ICC Appoints New Director of Marketing, Sales and Events The Durban International Convention Centre is pleased to announce the promotion of Mala Dorasamy to the role of Marketing, Sales and Events Director.

Mala was part of the original team which opened the Durban ICC in 1997, and has served faithfully in the Marketing and Sales department for the last sixteen years. Having moved through the ranks of sales and event coordination and spent several years in the role of the Centre’s Marketing and Sales Manager, Mala brings a wealth of first-hand knowledge and insight to the position. She has been responsible for the coordination and project management of many successful world-class events hosted at the Centre, including personally overseeing the opening of the Durban ICC Arena in 2007. Mala has

played a pivotal role in the department for many years now and is well prepared for the responsibilities of her new position.

Commenting on the appointment, Julie-May Ellingson, Chief Executive Officer, said, “We are delighted that Mala has accepted the position of Marketing, Sales and Events Director. As part of the Durban ICC’s succession plan, it is encouraging to see someone of Mala’s strength coming through our ranks. In addition to her extensive organisational knowledge, Mala brings considerable marketing expertise and a fresh energy to the position.

She is well respected by our team and clients alike, and we look forward to the contribution she is going to make in her new leadership role.”

INDUSTRY MOVES

New MD Durban’s Iconic Three Cities Riverside Hotel & Spa gets a Phased Multimillion Rand Make-Over One of Durban’s foremost and leading hotels Three Cities Riverside Hotel & Spa has been rejuvenated and revived with a fresh contemporary timeless appeal, after the 15 year old Hotel began the July 16, 2013 public area and two mock-up room refurbishments.

Located high on the banks of the Umgeni River, the four-star Three Cities Riverside Hotel & Spa underwent its very first major renovation after a soft refurbishment implemented five years ago when the Hotel changed the carpets and

colour schemes in the 169 rooms.

The Conference Centre was renovated at the beginning of this year when major change was made to the entrance and basic aesthetics of the venue including carpeting; lighting; painting and touch-ups.

Virtu’ Designs cc International are the appointed Interior Designers and Space Planners on the project with the vision of “creating of an international venue that accommodates maximum use of space with a fresh timeless appeal.” The project was managed by the Riverside Hotel.

of Events Company Spintelligent

David Ashdown has been named the new Managing Director of leading Cape Town-based Trade Exhibition & Conference Organiser, Spintelligent Pty. Part of the global media group, Clarion Events, Spintelligent organises internationally recognised and acclaimed industry forums such as African Utility Week, Clean Power Africa, African Education Week and the Katanga Mining Briefing. Active around the continent with 15 projects, the company also produces the leading trade publications and portals: Metering International, ESI Africa and Mining Review Africa.

David was born and educated in the UK, boasts some 17 years’ experience in the exhibition industry, working mainly in the emerging markets of Asia & Eastern Europe. For the past two years, he was Clarion Events’ International Business Development Director.

Atta and On Show Solutions form Roadshow Partnership to Showcase Africa Atta – The African Travel & Tourism Association – and roadshow organisers On Show Solutions this week announced their partnership to jointly showcase Africa in key source markets.

‘On Show’s professional, yet personal and dynamic approach to global marketing, fits perfectly with Atta’s international profile and distinctive brand, states Nigel Vere Nicoll, Chief Executive of Atta. ‘On Show’s expansion from a Southern to an

“All” Africa focus has opened a door for our association with over 550 members in 22 countries across Africa, to participate and benefit from their un-paralleled experience in operating roadshows around the world.’

Over the past five years, On Show’s Africa Showcase has evolved into one of the largest travel trade events featuring exclusively African products. The events

provide travel sellers with the latest information and tools designed to boost their sales to Africa through one-on-one meetings with the finest products from Southern, East and Central Africa as well as the Indian Ocean Islands.

Atta brings further opportunities to the partnership for On Show clients to participate on Atta’s marketing platforms in South America and China.

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ASSOCIATIONS

The 2013 EXSA Awards will be celebrated in the Heart of the City of Gold on Thursday, 21 November at the Johannesburg Expo Centre. Get your glitz and glam on and join the EXSA “Oscars of the industry” with a touch of gold! EXSA is committed to the success of its Awards programme and wishes members every success in the competition. Please note: The programme’s criteria, categories and procedures have been adjusted based on feedback from the 2008 Awards programme. The objectives of this year’s awards include: • the recognition of excellence for EXSA members in their various fields of expertise • generating an awareness of the importance of service to the exhibition industry • showcasing our world-class standards and services and marketing this to potential exhibitors and visitors • demonstrating the impact and the power of the exhibition medium to foster growth • striving for continued quality in an environment of excitement and creativity • encouraging collaboration between members to contribute to the continued success of our industry Tickets are R550 excl. VAT per head or R5 500 excl. VAT per table of 10. You can book your table by calling the EXSA offices today, or send an e-mail to info@exsa.co.za.

Note: The EXSA Awards should not be confused with the awards which organisers give to exhibitors on their exhibitions. The EXSA Awards are for EXSA members only and are awarded to the member and not the exhibitor.

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Women’s Leadership Forum 20 November 2013 Make sure you attend the inaugural Women’s Leadership Forum on the 20th of November for a celebration of all great women in the events industry - on what promises to be a very special day out of the office. Spoil yourself and bring your staff along as well!

Come along and hear how important we as women are in today’s economy; how to brand YOU; how to look good; how to manage your future finances; and how to break through that all important glass ceiling. The registration fee (excluding VAT) is R1750.00 for EXSA & SAACI members and R2500.00 for non-members. Visit the SAACI website (www.saaci.co.za) to view the programme and to book your seat.

ASSOCIATIONS

Site Announces Collaboration with PCMA’s Convene Magazine Site and the Site International Foundation are proud to announce a collaboration with the Professional Convention Management Association (PCMA) to provide research and educational content for incentive travel professionals through PCMA’s Convene Magazine.

As part of the collaboration, Site will contribute to Convene quarterly inserts specifically for the incentive and motivational event practitioner. The inserts, showcasing research, best practices, case studies and other articles from Site and the Site International Foundation, will start with the December 2013 issue of Convene and will be included in the March, June, October and December issues in 2014.

“I think we are at a critical time to be able to increase our influence as an industry and increase the impact that our association — and other associations in our space — can have on people in motivational events and incentive travel,” said Kevin Hinton, Chief Staff Officer of Site.

The insert in the upcoming December issue will feature an overview of why incentive travel is a more effective motivator than cash rewards, as well as a message from Site President 2014 Paul Miller on why being an active member of the Site community is a significant advantage for incentive professionals and the companies they represent.

The International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) will back the 2014 edition of the Baltic-based meetings industry tradeshow, Convene in Vilnius, Lithuania, with a new education programme.

ICCA will be providing visitors and Hosted Buyers a “cutting edge” education programme a day before the tradeshow, 11 February 2014.

ICCA’s CEO, Martin Sirk, says the association is “delighted” to increase its involvement in Convene 2014. “The Baltic is becoming an increasingly important meetings destination, especially as business and academic connections and relationships emerge and evolve between countries, companies and universities across the whole of the region,” he adds.

The organisers say that Convene 2014, 12-13 February, will feature a host of new exhibitors and 30 per cent more Hosted Buyers.

Anna Gorska, ICCA Central European Chapter Chairperson and the Gdansk Convention Bureau/Gdansk Tourism Organisation CEO, said: “After a successful first edition in which 115 international Hosted Buyers were joined by 100 meeting event planners from within Lithuania, Convene proved there is a real potential and interest in the region

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PRODUCT SHOWCASE access control wristbands & promotional items

conference equipment

events services

IDCBand are specialist suppliers of branded wristbands, lanyards and unique promotional merchandise. IDCBand are BEE Compliant and a highly trusted name in the industry. We have the leading position on price, quality and lead times in SA.

Congress Rental South Africa, the number one conference equipment rental and sales company in Southern Africa. Specialising in Interpretation & AV Equipment.

Please call us for more information and to receive your free quote!

IDCBand tel: +27 11 675 5548 email: sales@idcband.co.za www.idcband.co.za

CALL CENTRE: 0861 CONGRESS (266 473) Johannesburg: +27 11 216 9640 Cape Town: +27 11 851 5450 email: info@congressrental.co.za www.congressrental.co.za

Durban: +27 31 263 9400 Johannesburg: +27 11 312 2270 www.bidvestprestigegroup.co.za

events services

funiture specialists

portable flooring

Furniture Rental Consultants Required JHB & Cape Town Connecta-floor is a multi-purpose modular Mobile Toilet facilities solutions for: events weddings sports events filming crews

Durban: +27 31 705 5284 Cape Town: +27 21 511 7771 Johannesburg: +27 11 453 6099 www.prestigetoilet.co.za

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Your 5 years experience within the industry

flooring system ideal for exhibitions and

secures an interview. We require self

functions. It is available in a variety of

motivated individuals with own transport.

colours and sizes to fit any octanorm exhibition stand. Sizes: 750 x 750mm,

Basic Salary & Commission

500 x 750mm and 250 x 750mm

Send detailed CV to email: sabe@netactive.co.za

tel: 0860 HIRE IT (4473 48) www.connecta-floor.co.za

OPPORTUNITIES

UFI Education Award Objectives of the UFI Education Award •

•

•

To reward the best education programme within the global exhibition community in compliance with UFI competition criteria.

To share innovative exhibition-related ideas on in-house education concepts and programmes.

To honor professionals who have developed and implemented resultsoriented educational and vocational activities.

Guidelines Your entry must relate to an in-house programme for educational and/or vocational purposes, related to the exhibition industry. It should be addressed to your employees or to the staff of your contracted service partners.

The programme can be related to e.g. the following tasks: • Management skills, operational skills, soft skills • Intercultural competence • Change management • Induction programmes Entries submitted must describe an education or training programme which has been successfully implemented and measured in both quantitative and qualitative terms.

Your entry must include the project’s programme, the actions taken to reach those objectives and the results obtained. Please also describe the set-up and duration of the programme. The programme’s evaluation and the results have to become visible in 2013.

Criteria The activity described in your entry must: • Be an in-house education initiative • Have been implemented with visible results, • Have a clearly defined objective, • Address a defined target group, • Be innovative and creative, • Have measurable outcomes in 2013

Deadline 31 January 2014

Prizes The winner will: • receive a complimentary registration for 2 persons to attend a UFI Focus Meeting or alternatively one registration for one of the next UFI Regional Seminar (2014, 2015); • have a permanent hyperlink to their website from the UFI website; • gain visibility at the UFI Congress and in the media.

For more information visit: www.ufi.org

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DIRECTORY LISTINGS

Advertisers COMPANY

TELEPHONE

EMAIL

WEBSITE

3D Deco

+27 86 133 3326

sales@3ddeco.co.za

www.3ddeco.co.za www.3ddeco.co.za

3D Design

+27 21 702 1089

andrew@3dcape.co.za

www.3ddesign.co.za www.3ddesign.co.za

Amrod Group

+27 11 457 9900

info@amrodgroup.co.za

www.amrod.co.za www.amrod.co.za

Beige Village

+233 202 014 371

catherine.appiah@beigevillage.com

www.beigevillage.com www.beigevillage.com

Bidvest Prestige Group

+27 31 263 9400

info@presclean.co.za

www.bidvestprestigegroup.co.za www.bidvestprestigegroup.co.za

Budget

+27 21 510 8602

garydv@budget.co.za

www.budget.co.za www.budget.co.za

Cape Town International

+27 21 410 5000

info@cticc.co.za

www.cticc.co.za www.cticc.co.za

CATHSSETA

+27 11 217 0600

info@cathsseta.org.za

www.cathsseta.org.za www.cathsseta.org.za

Concept G

+27 86 122 2678

info@conceptg.co.za

www.conceptg.co.za www.conceptg.co.za

Congress Rental

+27 86 126 6473

info@congressrental.co.za

www.congressrental.co.za www.congressrental.co.za

Connecta-Floor

+27 86 044 7348

info@connecta-floor.co.za

www.connecta-floor.co.za www.connecta-floor.co.za

Event Greening Forum

+27 74 369 6369

pippa@eventgreening.co.za

www.eventgreening.co.za www.eventgreening.co.za

Expo Centre

+27 11 494 1920

info@expocentre.co.za

www.expocentre.co.za www.expocentre.co.za

First Impressions

+27 89 680 0729

charmaine.k@firstimpressions.co.za www.firstimpressions.co.za www.firstimpressions.co.za

Gearhouse South Africa

+27 11 216 3000

dbn@gearhouse.co.za

www.gearhouse.co.za www.gearhouse.co.za

IDC Band

+27 11 675 5548

sales@idcband.co.za

www.idcband.co.za www.idcband.co.za

Intercape

+27 21 380 4400

charters@intercape.co.za

www.intercape.co.za www.intercape.co.za

Invent Infrastructure

+27 21 691 6423

allie@invent.co.za

www.inventinfrastructure.co.za www.inventinfrastructure.co.za

MMI-South Africa

+27 11 476 8093

info@mmi-southafrica.co.za

www.mmi-southafrica.co.za www.mmi-southafrica.co.za

Oasys

+27 11 210 2500

aneliam@oasys.co.za

www.oasys.co.za www.oasys.co.za

SANCB

+27 11 895 3000

convention@southafrica.net

www.meetingsafrica.net www.meetingsafrica.net

Sandton Convention Centre

+ 27 11 779 0000

scc.info@tsogosun.com

www.saconvention.co.za www.saconvention.co.za

Scan Display

+27 21 409 1200

justin@scandisplay.co.za

www.scandisplay.co.za www.scandisplay.co.za

SETE

+27 11 549 8300

info@tepg.co.za

www.sportsandevents.co.za www.sportsandevents.co.za

Showgroup

+27 11 888 5000

info@showgroup.co.za

www.showgroupworld.com www.showgroupworld.com

Sanganai/Hlanganai

+263 4 758 712-4

edson@ztazim.co.zw

www.zimbabwetourism.net www.zimbabwetourism.net

Convention Centre

(Zimbabwe Tourism Authority)

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