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Issue 53 February/March 2012 £4.75
Industry predicts a strong year
Organisers urged to liaise more By Christina Eccles
ORGANISERS have been urged to liaise more closely with suppliers to ensure the industry is completely ready for the impact of a packed Olympics’ events programme. In an open letter, secretary Jim Winship addressed organisers on behalf of the Events Industry Forum – an informal group of 26 trade bodies representing the UK events industry. He said members are concerned about official and unofficial events surrounding the upcoming Games, as many of them are yet to be finalised – meaning organisers who think they can simply turn to existing suppliers at short notice may be disappointed. He said: “We understand from our members that a large number of the events being planned have yet to be formalised and, in many cases, little has been done to secure the equipment and support needed for them to happen. “In some cases we understand there may be an assumption organisers can simply turn to their existing suppliers. “While this might be the case in normal years, 2012 is exceptional with a huge number of events happening across the UK at the same time. This
means that in some areas there is likely to be excessive pressure on suppliers which they may not be able to respond to. “We are particularly concerned this could result in inexperienced suppliers entering the market with the result that something goes badly wrong and the reputation of the industry as a whole becomes tarnished.” The forum has now asked organisers to bring forward discussions with suppliers, ensure they are dealing with reputable companies and coordinate supply chains. He added: “Where events, such as the Torch Relay, are happening on a rolling basis it may be possible for suppliers to similarly follow the route. This could also be more economic for everyone. “Together with our member organisations, the forum is very willing to provide advice to organisers on who they should contact for support.” MUTA president Tony Marsh also joined the debate, adding organisers should pick suppliers with care and look for accreditation such as its own MUTAmarq. I Do you agree with Jim’s comments? Email Christina Eccles at ce@whpl.net with your thoughts.
Details have been announced for this year’s Rewind Festival, which takes place this summer in Henley-on-Thames. New features include The Grand Palace of Entertainment – as seen on Channel Five’s Fairground Attraction – which will be converted into an acoustic and comedy bar. Also new is a range of food courtesy of Jamie Oliver’s Fabulous Feasts. The line up for the 2012 event includes Kool and the Gang, Right Said Fred and Heather Small (pictured).
EVENT organisers are predicting a positive year with increased budgets, social media and new technology at the forefront of their minds, a survey has revealed. The industry poll, commissioned by new trade show International Outdoor Event Expo, suggested a bright future for events this year – with over 80 per cent of respondents saying their investment budget would be the same or increased in 2012 and continued growth would be maintained into 2013. Over 57 per cent also said they would be investing in new event technology this year and 53 per cent would be purchasing AV kit. UBM portfolio director Jonny Sullens said: “The results of the IOEX survey certainly echo the feeling in the industry that 2012 will be an exciting year of growth and change. “With so many external factors at the forefront of our minds, the results will now be fed into our seminar programme to make sure we can provide insight for the areas our organiser and brand visitors are interested in.” According to results, the biggest issues facing the industry this year will be the economy, followed by the upcoming Olympics.
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NEWS
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The day The Main Event welcomed a Prince ... THE Main Event had its first Royal visitor last month when Prince Charles visited us and met the team behind the magazine that has established itself as the most effective commercial link between suppliers, sub-contractors and organisers working in the dynamic outdoor events world. His Royal Highness met managing director Michael Hewitt, group editor Judith Halkerston and sales director Tony Barry who showed him our portfolio of magazines as well as new technology associated with Script Media’s corporate video division. Digital media producer Simon Rodman demonstrated some of the techniques used, including green screen, to produce broadcast quality videos. Judith said: “It was a real honour for us to welcome the Prince to The Main Event offices and we were all thrilled to meet him. He seemed genuinely interested in the work that we do and was very friendly and put everyone at ease.” Prince Charles also visited other divisions of the Acredula Group, Script’s parent company, including the Barnsley Chronicle, Pen and Sword Books and Yorkshire Web.
Page 19 CONTENTS
News
Pages 1-9
Ticketing, wristbands, lanyards Pages 10-12 Screen hire
Pages 13-15
Vehicles and transport
Pages 16-18
IOEX preview
Pages 19-22
Classified
Pages 24-27
CONTACTS Editorial Group Editor Judith Halkerston Tel: 01226 734639 editorial@themaineventmagazine.co.uk Reporters: Christina Eccles (ce@whpl.net) Dominic Musgrave (dm@whpl.net)
Production Studio Manager: Stewart Holt (sth@whpl.net) Tel: 01226 734414
Script Media group editor Judith Halkerston chats to HRH Prince Charles about the company’s various titles including The Main Event.
Graphic designer: Laura Blackburn (lb@whpl.net) Tel: 01226 734705
Advertising Assistant Manager: Mandy Mellor Tel: 01226 734702 Mobile: 07540 283 269 Email: mm@whpl.net Sales and Marketing Director: Tony Barry Email: tb@whpl.net
Circulation Kelly Tarff Tel: 01226 734695 circulation@wharncliffepublishing.co.uk
www.themaineventmagazine.co.uk
Prince Charles chats to Script sales director Tony Barry.
HRH Prince Charles speaks with Script Media studio manager Stewart Holt, reporter Christina Eccles and assistant manager Mandy Mellor.
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NEWS
Security was tight for the visit of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and their cheerleaders. Sea Odyssey is expected to attract 250,000 people.
Girl giant to feature in Sea Odyssey event By Christina Eccles A LITTLE girl giant and the story of the Titanic will form part of Liverpool’s largest ever outdoor event spectacular. Sea Odyssey – presented by leading street theatre company, Royal De Luxe – is a magical story of how the human spirit triumphs over the Titanic tragedy, starring the 30 foot tall Little Girl Giant. For the first time in the city’s event history, around half the action will focus on North Liverpool – with organisers hoping the event will transform this part of the city and enhance its appeal to developers and investors. The marionette giant will wander around areas including Stanley Park, Walton Lane, Everton and Anfield with an estimated 250,000 people expected to attend. Liverpool city council’s cabinet member for culture and tourism coun Wendy Simon said: “Sea Odyssey will be a seminal event for the city. We want the occasion to not just be a huge success for the city in April, but bring a longer lasting legacy as a result of the area
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being placed in such a unique spotlight. “Tens of thousands of people visit the north end for football matches, but rarely spend any more time there, so this is the perfect opportunity to show off the area and its potential, and as a result, hopefully encourage investment. “Everton Park is a prime example of a significant city asset in close proximity to the city centre which some people, even Liverpudlians, may not be aware of – so it’s a case of highlighting these hidden gems and transforming people’s perceptions of the area. “These will be the first steps towards significant regeneration and investment and the event will prove to be a real catalyst for positive change, not just for the area, but for the entire city.” The free event takes place from April 20 to 22 and is set to be the most complex event the city council has ever staged. The full route and visited locations will not be released until a few weeks before the event, but along with North Liverpool, parts of the spectacular will also take place in the city centre.
American football team’s visit challenges company SECURITY and crowd management were high on the agenda when a high profile American Football team visited London. As the Tampa Bay Buccaneers challenged the Chicago Bears at London’s Wembley Stadium, the USA’s National Football League called on Integrated Security Consultants to provide close protection and security for both football teams and their officials plus the team of 34 cheerleaders accompanying the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on the visit. The spectacular cheerleading displays were a crucial part of the preevent publicity – with the squad attending several public engagements before the match, including performing in front of a estimated 50,000 people at the NFL Tailgate Party outside Wembley Stadium before the game. The operation required daily meetings with NFL’s own security team, as well as constant liaison with venues on the visit. ISC operations manager Steve Mack was the security operations
manager for the visit. He said: “The NFL team received updates from the US Embassy and we discussed the overall security threat, which was considered ‘severe’ in London at the time. “Plans had to be adapted to accommodate frequent schedule changes so we had to be prepared, reacting swiftly to new circumstances.” A visit to an Oxford Street sportswear store was one of the most challenging events as the cheerleaders needed their own area to perform in, while the fans were set slightly apart. Steve added: “Cheerleading is a new experience for the UK public, so security had to be tight. In Oxford Street, we understood the store location and had good liaison with the management and their security. “We deployed staff in from other jobs and to boost our close protection teams while the cheerleaders were there. We liaised with the hotels or venues throughout the visit and carried out reconnaissance of all locations beforehand.”
Steps to play special concert RECENTLY reformed pop group Steps will perform a special concert this summer as part of the Forestry Commission’s live music series. The five-piece band will bring their
reunion tour to Westonbirt Arboretum in Gloucestershire on July 22, treating fans to hits including 5, 6, 7, 8, One for Sorrow, Tragedy, and Stomp.
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Take That’s Progress tour was one of the biggest events of last summer, watched by thousands of excited fans in stadiums up and down the country. The Main Event heard production manager Chris Vaughan speak at the Event Production Show.
Chris reveals the challenges of working on a must-see tour A MASSIVE mechanical robot, spectacular special effects and the eagerly anticipated reunion between the four members of Take That and Robbie Williams made this the tour everyone was talking about last year. Highlights included a solo section from Robbie and a set from the four piece Take That, before the five of them joined together to sing hits from latest album, Progress, which was also the theme of the live show, plus some familiar favourites from their early years as a band. Chris has been working with Take That since those early days and told delegates at the Event Production Show’s Access Sessions, things have changed greatly since they first went on tour – as budgets, expectations from fans and the emphasis bands put on touring to make money have all grown. In his role as production manager, Chris has the job of bridging the gap
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between the creative ideas of Take That and their art department with what is realistically – and financially – possible to deliver the best show possible for the fans. He explained: “Take That are driven to provide an amazing experience for the public – the band are very hardworking. “Even in the early days, the focus was on producing an amazing show. Since they reformed, the band are extremely involved in the artistic process. “The art department’s job is to come up with something amazing – their job is only to care about the show. They don’t need to care about the load in or out or how much money is spent. “We needed to set some parameters. A framework so the art department can remain creative but without the show going bankrupt. “We have to create a budget and structure. Running a tour is big business – bands want to make profits from
Three set manufacturers from around the world put the tour together.
Chris Vaughan live touring. “If we remain close to the artistic process, in control of the finances and have a desire to produce something extraordinary – you can straddle the art/budget gap.” One of the team’s other challenges was the joining of two massive separate acts – Robbie Williams and Take That – on stage as a band. Chris added: “We had to think about how we were going to go about joining Robbie and Take That and make a show out of it. It was decided Take That were going to open the show and lead into Robbie. “The next section, which broke up their two solo bits, was a dance sequence, of about four minutes, which led into ‘The Flood’. This gave them time to become a band again before going out into the audience. “This album direction was very different to The Circus. The robot had an artistic sense in the show – it wasn’t just a bolt on to say look what we can do. “The amazing thing was that although
Last year’s Progress tour featured a mechanised robot as well as the much anticipated return of Robbie Williams to the band. we had three different set manufacturers from all over the world, all the elements came together. “The ‘Robbie factor’ did put everyone under a lot of pressure. We had two major acts coming together – it would be like AC/DC joining Metallica for a tour. “We didn’t want to deliberately create bigger and better (than the last tour). We just wanted to produce the very best show possible.”
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NEWS
A technical error put a Scottish fireworks display under the spotlight when 20 minutes’ worth of fireworks went off in just one minute. PYRO1’s operations director Martin Allen told The Main Event how the incident unexpectedly inspired a new trend and why the company is looking forward to an exciting year ahead.
Shortened display helps company’s bookings rocket LAST November, PYRO1 created an internet sensation when its fireworks display in Oban went off 20 times faster than it was supposed to. The footage went viral – with over 1m views on YouTube to date – and the story was featured in media around the world. Surprisingly for Martin, much of the feedback he received about the shortened display was positive, with many spectators saying how much they enjoyed it. The response was so strong that as a result of what happened in Oban, the company has now developed a short two to three minute display – dubbed the ‘Obang’ – to provide maximum impact and effect at an event in much less time than a traditional, longer show. He explained: “We went back and did another five-minute show to make it up to the town but we’ve had a lot of interest in the shorter, sharper displays, which are very high impact. “We have done them before at corporate events but it’s not something the public get to see very often.” Other events the company has worked on include Edinburgh’s spectacular Hogmanay celebrations and high-profile rugby matches at Twickenham – the most recent attended by a record-breaking crowd of 82,000 people. The match, a contest between Saracens and Harlequins, also includ-
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ed performances from X Factor contestants Amelia Lily and Misha B, as well as the pyrotechnic extravaganza, consisting of 120 silver comets fired horizontally out across the pitch and 200 coloured mine lifts fired vertically along the length of the East and West Roofs at the stadium. Martin added: “The sequence was fired as the Harlequins team ran onto the pitch just before kick-off and was designed to whip the crowd into a frenzy of anticipation. “We have provided the effects for this event for the last four years and during that time have increased the quantity and impact of the sequence each year. The players can feel the audience's excitement and it always heralds a great game.” Upcoming projects include representing the UK in a fireworks competition and sourcing new products on a trip to China, as well as possible events in the pipeline later in the year centred around the Olympic Games and the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee. Martin added: “It’s a very varied job. One day you can be at a stadium, the next at a corporate event and then in a PYRO1 put on a spectacular display at Twickenham to whip the crowd into a frenzy. field standing in the rain.”
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A music day for 45,000 people, a sponsored run in aid of Sport Relief and a maritime themed festival are just some of the major events organised by Ipswich Borough Council. Christina Eccles spoke to event manager James Young.
Relationships key to events’ success SUCCESSFUL events in Ipswich come together thanks to a partnership approach which keeps the whole town engaged. 2012’s packed programme of events will celebrate everything from Ipswich’s rich maritime heritage to the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee and the London Olympics. According to James, personal relationships are key and even in a difficult climate, building close contacts with local businesses means events remain well supported. He said: “Giving people confidence in our events is the key thing. A lot of the team has been around a while so we know a lot of people. “We try and work with local businesses and we know it’s a two-way street – we can’t expect them just to chuck loads of money at us, they have to see a tangible benefit. “It has got harder to find sponsors for a particular event. Instead companies are looking at their overall involvement in the events programme. “We find giving people more lead-in time post and pre event really helps. Coming up with packages and grouping things together is much more valuable than focusing on one event.” James also said the events team benefits from a lot of support within the council from other departments such as marketing and from portfolio holder Bryony Rudkin. He said local people are also keen to get behind events and like the fact that many parts of the programme are free. He added: “We have a lot of support from the local community and like to
Ipswich Borough Council offers both free and ticketed events to give people choice. keep doing a mixture of events. Music Day is a free event but alongside that last year we had ticketed events to give people a different choice. “As the events team, we know what we are talking about and we want to do things right. We also feel very passionIPSWICH Borough Council’s 2012 events programme includes: Sainsbury’s Sport Relief Mile – March 25. Her Majesty’s Diamond Jubilee celebrations – June 2-5. Ipswich Arts Festival – June 15-July 8.
ately about promoting the town. “We are looking forward to seeing people enjoying themselves at our events this year. If you can do that in a safe, controlled environment, there’s nothing better.” Ipswich Music Day – July 1. Olympic Torch Relay – July 5. Indian Summer Mela – July 8 European Cyclo-Cross Championships – November 3-4. Ipswich Santa Run – December 9.
Council looking for bands for Music Day BANDS and musicians are also being sought to perform at one of the council’s biggest events, Ipswich Music Day, which this year celebrates its 21st birthday. The event takes place on July 1 at Christchurch Park and features six stages of live music – with almost 45,000 people enjoying the action
last year. James added: “This is the 21st year of Ipswich Music Day and with the help of all our partners we plan to make it the most successful to date. “We have plans to include an acoustic stage this year and we hope to introduce a chillout area for even more depth of music on offer. Of course the
event would be nothing without the music and we are seeking the brightest talent across Suffolk and East Anglia to perform live on the day. “It’s a great opportunity for bands, solo artists and musicians to perform in front of thousands of people on a festival stage and applications are now open.”
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TICKETING, WRISTBANDS, LANYARDS
From the latest developments in technology to the ever present problem of touts, ticketing is always an interesting issue for organisers. The Main Event found out more.
Organisers on the lookout for the latest ticketing technology THE ticketing industry is big business – with many of today’s outdoor events, both free and paid for, using tickets or wristbands to control entry. And in such a fast moving world, organisers are always looking for the latest developments in technology, which will make their lives easier and improve the visitor experience. ID&C have been pioneering technology at live events for the past 18 months – having success with cashless payments at the Isle of Wight Festival, while servicing a number of major American festivals with RFID wristbands as part of an access control solution. ID&C’s Craig Bennett explained: “Thanks to some recent exposure from BBC Radio One and Glastonbury's Michael Eavis, RFID wristbands have triggered interest with the everyday festivalgoer. “Most appear accepting and are looking forward to enjoying the benefits or RFID like reduced queuing, faster payments and even being able to share their experiences with their online social network – all through the convenience of a wristband.”
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Iris Ticketing Solutions’ Luke Pheasey agreed new developments in technology will be a major trend for 2012. He added: “Event ticketing can often follow trends set by the airline industry. So much concern was raised about print at home tickets when they first became widely used. But now they are seen as acceptable – and indeed are not even used by many airlines – all you need is your ID. “The extension of that then is an access control system where identifying the customer and marking them as entered should be the focus – the ticket becomes less vital. This implies that the event organiser needs to know more about the customer – and reduce the amount of generic selling. “Smaller pre-booked events can manage this with reports. Semi-fixed events can do so with web-enabled devices that can verify the customer’s identity against the ticketing system. Larger events may need access control, such as with barcoded tickets linked to sales and only allowed to enter the event once, or via specific gate(s).” Continued on page 11.
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TICKETING, WRISTBANDS, LANYARDS However, Sec Print’s Brian Terry was slightly more sceptical about how well this new technology will take off. He added: “Wristbands with RFID tags are a good idea, but I think their general use at events is a long way off yet – it needs to be proved it is a workable system. “It’s not an area we would like to get involved in. QR barcoding for security on all tickets we produce is our priority at the moment.” Ticket Alternative’s Iain Bluett also shared his predictions, which include a growing rise in the popularity of social networking and mobile phones as methods to buy tickets. “Mobile ticketing will continue to become more and more dominant. Both the ordering of tickets via a smartphone and the delivery of the tickets via barcodes on the phones. Facebook will continue to play an integral role too. You’ll see more companies allowing you to login to their ticketing system with your Facebook credentials, and Facebook ticketing apps will keep customers on the Facebook site without having to redirect them (and possibly lose them) to an external ticketing site to buy tickets.” Suppliers have also been sharing their opinions on the issue of touting – something which organisers have had to become increasingly aware of at their events. Iain added: “Security is the name of the game. Custom wristbands provide an added layer of security and we’ve just introduced a new line of products for nightclubs that have hidden UV ink on the wristbands. It’s almost invisible to the naked eye, but very easy to see under a blacklight. Our new line of cloth wristbands with a sliding lock are proving very popular because they don’t
Ticketing companies and organisers are also becoming more closely linked. require a cumbersome tool to lock them, but they’re almost impossible to remove without noticeable damage.” Ticketing companies and organisers are also becoming more closely linked, striving to offer the best deals for festivalgoers, while making the booking process as streamlined as possible. New website WeGotFestivals is the brainchild of paperless ticketing company WeGotTickets and will offer customers information on over 200 festivals including Field Day, Bearded Theory and Wychwood. The site is intended to engage directly
with customers, encouraging them to browse and discover festivals, with some events featured on the home page through which customers can click right through to purchase. Sales manager Edd Lewington added: “We'd been thinking about ways we could provide customers easier access to our fantastic independent festivals – and WeGotFestivals was born. “As well as providing marketing support to our festival clients we are offering festivalgoers an opportunity to discover those hidden gems we all know are there, but only occasionally
hear about.” This summer’s festivals will also give organisers the chance to try out the latest new products in the world of ticketing, wristbands and lanyards. One company leading the way is Identilam with products including Badge and Track, which enables the electronic management and reporting of delegate attendance to events using barcodes or RFID technology. Other multi-purpose items include the HoodiBag, which can be worn as a lanyard or converted into a rainproof hood or shopping bag.
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TICKETING, WRISTBANDS, LANYARDS
A different opinion on touting to traditional event organisers ... By Rory Sloan, head of production, RPM I HAVE read plenty about touting in the press recently and have always struggled to share the same opinion as the majority of the industry. This is probably the result of very different objectives I have from those of more traditional event organisers. Few of the events RPM run are looking for any financial return from ticket sales; doing one off spectaculars for brands works in a very different way from running a profitable festival or tour. Ours and our client’s payback comes from increased brand loyalty and brand advocacy. The fact is we often charge simply to ensure the tickets have a worth and we get our capacity we want. For a lot of events that we run, the actual event is just the tip of the iceberg and the true value of the project comes from the word of mouth, press coverage and social media amplification of the event. With all this in mind, the closer
we can get to capacity the better the result of the event. If someone has a ticket to one of our events which they buy three months before the line up has even been announced, why shouldn’t they sell it on to a mate if it turns out they can’t or don’t want to go? It suits me much better if they do. In the past some of the arguments against ticket touting have been around individuals cornering the market and limiting supply in order to inflate the ticket prices. My limited understanding gleaned from A-level Economics taught me about the principle of supply and demand. If it really is the case that supply is likely to far outstrip demand then the promoter should be looking at holding the event in a venue with a larger capacity. If that’s not possible then look to repeat the event. Or finally if none of those options are available they can always increase ticket prices, within reason. It is much easier to control who gets hold of the tickets these days. We often organise ticket sales
for events through Facebook so you know who is coming to the event and can communicate with them pre and post event, it does also mean you can limit the number of tickets sold to individuals and stop people buying up large numbers. Alternatively you can go down a public ballot route like the Olympics, Wimbledon or Glastonbury. I realise the Olympics has brought in special laws to fine touts up to £20,000, and I certainly wouldn’t encourage people to break the law, but it is down to individual event organisers to decide whether their tickets can be re-sold. Personally I think it is just as criminal and tantamount to theft to not allow someone who, for whatever reason, has decided not to attend an event they have paid for and are refused a refund. The idea that you can only pass tickets on for free is outdated and I can only hope that the rise of websites like Viagogo will reduce organisers’ resistance to ticket resales and also ensure consumers are not out of pocket.
Rory Sloan
JLS will be among the acts performing at the concert. Picture by: Steve Vas / Featureflash
Jubilee ballot unveiled
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A PUBLIC ticket ballot will give 10,000 people the chance to watch stars including Elton John, JLS and Ed Sheeran perform at a special concert to mark The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee. The historic event, a celebration of the monarch’s 60-year reign through music, will be attended by Her Majesty The Queen, His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh and other members of the Royal Family and will take place around the Queen Victoria Memorial in front of Buckingham Palace. Those interested in attending have been invited to register via a dedicated website or by post, with the tickets allocated to people all over the country who will then be able to attend both the concert and a special picnic in the
grounds of the palace. The concert will be broadcast live on BBC One and BBC Radio 2 in the UK and to millions around the world, with the BBC and Take That star Gary Barlow responsible for the star studded line up. BBC One controller Danny Cohen said: “BBC One is honoured to be the broadcast host of this magnificent concert to celebrate the Diamond Jubilee. “This will be a musical event like no other, with Britain's greatest musical stars performing to celebrate this great occasion.” Other acts performing at the event include Cliff Richard, Shirley Bassey and Annie Lennox with more to be announced at a later date.
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SCREEN HIRE
Swansea to host Olympic events SWANSEA city centre will get into the Olympic spirit this summer thanks to the arrival of a big screen in Castle Square. The square will become one of the UK’s Live Sites – a number of event spaces in town and city centres offering live information, videos and news related to the Games via screens. Decorations such as flagpoles and banners will also be on display as the city embraces the Olympics and surrounding events such as the Torch Relay. Swansea Council's cabinet member for culture, recreation and tourism coun Graham Thomas said: “The Olympics is the biggest sporting event in the world and it's important people all over the
country join in the celebrations in the build-up to the London Games. “Many Welsh athletes will be going for gold and the Live Site in Castle Square will ensure city centre shoppers and visitors have a great viewing point to keep up with all the live action from the Games. “The introduction of flag poles and banners will help generate excitement and ensure local people feel very much part of the nationwide festivities. “We have an exciting programme of events planned around the big screen in Castle Square this year and the Olympic dressing will certainly add to the festival feeling.”
Firm has a variety of screens LIGHTMEDIA Displays is highly regarded throughout the event industry for its professionalism and capabilities. The Lightmedia Displays fleet has grown intensively over the years from when Eddie Smith started out in 1997, bringing the first bulb type screen unit into the UK from the USA. Products include mobile LED truck mounted screens – with sizes ranging from 8sqm – all with high quality resolu-
tion LED screens with a 7mm virtual pixel pitch and the very latest in outside broadcast trucks, purpose built to LMD specification. The company has worked on many high profile events and recently won the contract for Cancer Research UK, providing screens for the majority of their Shine and Race for Life events in the UK.
ADI launch summer screen packages SUPPLIER of event LED screens ADI.tv has launched a new range of screen packages designed specifically to cater for the summer 2012 events season. With the Olympics, The Diamond Jubilee and Euro 2012, it’s set to be a bumper summer for the outdoor events industry and in particular the LED screens sector. Big screens are at a premium over July and August, and what is already the busiest period of the year has gone stratospheric with this year’s events. To cater for this huge increase in demand, ADI has created a range of screen packages specifically with these events in mind. These modular all-in-one solutions are designed for hire for a few weeks or months at a time, creating a seasonal communal space to bring the public together and help drive local business. ADI has provided a simple choice for customers to choose from three different screen sizes depending on their expected audience size. The full solution includes the screen structure, cladding (which can be branded), control room, television feed and PA – all the customer has to do is decide where to put it. Marketing manager Oliver Brindley said: “ADI is famed for our huge fleet of mobile screens, but this summer there’s a strong demand for screens for two, four or even six week hire periods. “Aside from the fact that most of our fleet is already booked, there’s not
much point in a mobile screen staying in the same place for a month. Our “summer screens” are designed to be cost effective over a longer rental period and are an all-in-one solution, encompassing screen, structure and PA, with the ability to be branded. “We’re experiencing very high demand for our screens, so I’d advise anyone interested to give us a call as soon as possible.”
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SCREEN HIRE Advertiser’s announcement
Big year for screen provider BIG TV is a provider of state of the art giant LED screens for all event needs. They specialise in mobile LED screen hire and cover all aspects of event production with their mobile units housing on-board generators, edit suites, d&b PA sound systems and satellite receivers. The larger screen units also have integrated stage and lighting facilities, bringing all the clients’ event needs into one self contained unit. For live events, Big TV can provide professional camera crew and equipment, wireless links, mixing technicians, sound engineers and more.
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2012 started at a fast pace for Big TV and looks to be the most exciting year yet for the company. Production manager Amy Coates said: “We always had high expectations for 2012 as an event year because of the Olympics, Euro 2012 and the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee and we’re thrilled that we've already managed to secure contracts with new clients for several dates this year. “Despite the recession and difficult economic times in 2011, we’ve worked hard to provide our long standing clients with a high level of service within their restricted budgets and we had a successful year bringing in new clients who we're pleased are already looking at confirming more events this year.” To cope with demand for 2012, and to keep moving forward, this summer Big TV will be bringing a new mobile screen into its existing fleet. Aptly named the Sky-fly, the 30sqm trailer mounted screen will be positioned on a fully flexible hydraulic arm which can be raised up to 20m and will be one of the only screens in the world that can be lifted and manoeuvred over a wall. Managing director Simon Woodcock added: “We're looking for investments with a new outlook and innovative design to complement our existing, well recognised and respected fleet.” With this in mind the Sky-fly is set to change the way screens can be used at events, keeping Big TV at the forefront
of LED technology and innovation. Simon also feels quality is paramount to the business. He added: “Any additions to Big TV need to be a continuation of the high quality equipment our clients are used to working with.” The 30sqm screen itself will use SMD RGB LED technology and will have a 10mm true pixel pitch, making it one of the world's highest quality screens with the most reliable technology. The LED panels are manufactured by
Daktronics and have been quality controlled with a series of demanding tests to ensure they can cope with any kind of British weather. “The response from clients so far regarding the Sky-fly has been fantastic, people are as excited about it as we are and already see it as the perfect solution for their event needs. We’re eager to get it in the market and look forward to it's first booking,” added Simon.
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Trials agree contract THE Equi-Trek Bramham International Horse Trials has signed a three year contract with Woodhouse Specialist Event Services. The company will supply its temporary stabling, trade stands and feature band stand for the four day event, which regularly attracts over 50,000 spectators and international competitors. Event director Nicholas Pritchard said: "This alliance is a great boost for us. Our competitors expect only the best from Bramham, and Woodhouse supply just that. We've had a long, successful relationship and having this commitment helps us to plan ahead, keep on budget and, of course, get the best stabling possible.” The winners at the inaugural Event Production Awards.
Club unveils new site MANCHESTER United’s conference and events division has launched a new dedicated website as part of its plans to promote the club as a first class venue. www.unitedevents-manutd.com has been created to attract potential customers by providing much more information on its facilities, images of each of the suites and detailed layout and seating plans to ensure organisers get the best location for their event. Director of Venue Karl Evans said: “Everyone knows Manchester United’s success on the field and now we want to show that its conference and events space is just as spectacular. We hope that our new website makes organising an event with us as convenient and simple as possible.”
Inaugural awards recognise industry best practices By Christina Eccles BEST practice in the live events industry was rewarded at a glittering ceremony in London attended by several hundred guests. The Event Production Awards took place at the Hilton Park Lane, organised by The Event Production Show, Access All Areas and the White Book in association with Capitol House Productions, and brought together promoters, suppliers and production companies from across the industry. The winners on the night were: Best Set Design/Finishing Touches – Wellpleased Events. Entertainment Supplier of the Year – Contraband International. Special Effects Company of the Year – Quantum Special Effects. AV Supplier of the Year – Creative
Technology. Communications Company of the Year – Etherlive. Seating Supplier of the Year – Arena Group. Waste Management Company of the Year – P-MINUS-Q. Event Furniture Supplier of the Year – GLD Productions. Flooring and Roadway Supplier – Eve. Supplier of the Year – St John’s Ambulance. Staging Company of the Year – Brilliant Stages. Security Company of the Year – G4S Secure Solutions (UK). Crowd Barrier or Fencing Supplier of the Year – Eve. Structure Company of the Year – Arena Group. Employee of the Year Award – Ben Collins, Stepladder Worldwide.
Event Innovation of the Year – Stepladder Worldwide - Inspiring Your Future Project. Crewing Company of the Year – Gallowglass. Event Production Show Supreme Award – Star Events Group. Access All Areas Editor’s Award – Shaun Kendrick. Event Production Show Shell Scheme Stand – Designer Flowers. Event Production Show Space Only Stand – Keeley Hire Ltd. Organiser Michelle Lewis said: “The feedback for the event was a unanimous thumbs up from everyone. “A sell out success on our first awards clearly shows a gap in the market and we are indebted to our sponsors and everyone who put themselves forward for an award.”
VEHICLES AND TRANSPORT
Company working on Madonna’s world tour SOUND Moves – the specialists in timed delivery logistics – work as official freight suppliers to such celebrities as The Black Eyed Peas and Celine Dion, and the company will also be providing logistics for the upcoming Madonna world tour. Formed in 1995, Sound Moves now has 13 strategically placed offices all over the globe supported by a partner network in over 50 countries. The company was built around the ever growing music sector, and its live event clients include XL Video, Fonix Led and Vice Media. Business development manager Simon Jackson said logistics was an umbrella term used by many but understood by few, although the industry's profile in the UK had been raised recently by commercials such
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as British Airways’ London 2012 advertising campaign. Simon said: “British Airways – in its capacity as airline and logistics supplier to the games – advertises its cargo and passenger baggage handling services in the commercial breaks of prime-time television shows. “This highlights a small part of their operational involvement in the games but also raises awareness of what is effectively an ‘invisible product.’ How many clients would give a thought to the process involved in, say, delivering a stage set, lighting rig and LED panel? And why should they? All the end user wants, whether in the UK or abroad, is for their event to be delivered successfully.” He added that when planning for any event, it was vital for organisers and
suppliers to have peace of mind that transportation by air, road or sea was delivered by the appointed logistics provider. The service should include project planning with multiple contingency measures,” he added. “It should also ensure the team at destination follow the pre-agreed schedule - and that means having the right people on call locally and in the UK, twenty-four seven.” With sea and air freight, complex customs procedures and paperwork can be required to ensure that incorrect information does not delay the equipment supporting a show. A logistics provider must be able to generate and process carnet documentation ('passport' for freight) and be on hand to ensure all customs procedures at each border crossing are followed.
Simon Jackson
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VEHICLES AND TRANSPORT
Expansion plan for vehicle provider SINCE its entry into the event management sector in 2011 Smiths (Gloucester) Ltd vehicles have become a familiar sight at events around the country. The business runs a fleet of well over 100 vehicles and machines from tippers to crushers, and with a successful 2011 under its belts, is planning further expansion for the 2012 season adding music festivals to its portfolio and specialising in country events. Smiths Waste Management, which runs events for Smiths, has a reputation for innovating and for its environmental awareness. The award-winning company has invested in some interesting technolo-
gy for vehicles in its fleet. A number of Smiths new drag-trailer lorries have Mercedes 'Stop-Start' technology fitted to save on both fuel costs and pollution. As a vehicle comes to a halt at lights or at a junction for instance, the engine automatically shuts down while the vehicle is stationary and the driver has only to press the accelerator for the engine to start and for the vehicle to set off again. A further innovation is the drag-trailer itself. A traditional skip lorry delivers an empty skip and collects a full one in a single journey. With a drag trailer added, Smiths are able to add flexibility to the journey doubling the work carried out,
doing its bit to cut down on congestion and pollution and reducing fuel usage. Perhaps the most familiar Smiths vehicle seen at events is the JCB Groundhog. These functional, highly manoeuvrable little vehicles are designed to give the operators access to difficult areas of a site with a minimum impact on the environment. The six-wheel configuration and the large tyres of the Groundhog mean that the 'footprint' it makes on the ground is much reduced when compared to larger, heavier vehicles. Groundhogs have been a great success, even at major events such as the CLA Game Fair, allowing Smiths personnel quick access to waste bins
across the whole site and ensuring that no bin overflows and waste is removed to larger RCV trucks for disposal from site. Smiths events co-ordinator Ema Ashworth said: “The right choice of vehicle at an event is vital to our performance. Access can be restricted, sites can be extensive and ground can be vulnerable or sensitive. “We have to ensure that we keep our vehicle movements to a minimum and any damage caused by vehicles is reduced or eliminated. “We will continue to look for innovative ways of using our vehicles and delivering our service, which is marked out by efficiency, innovation and environmental awareness.”
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VEHICLES AND TRANSPORT
Keep calm and book early ... LONDON 2012, The Greatest Show on Earth, promises to be the highlight of a very busy event year. The rearrangement of events traditionally held in July means other summer months are going to be more crowded than ever and Bradshaw Rental Vehicles are gearing up to meet the demand. Each year the entire fleet of rental vehicles travel thousands of miles criss crossing to events of all sizes. Bradshaw Rental Vehicles have invested in an advanced software planning system that allocates vehicles to each event in advance, factoring in sufficient transport time back to base. The ‘turn around team’ then swing into action cleaning, re-fuelling and completing the 20-point checklist on each vehicle so it is ready to be loaded onto our transporter for the journey to the next location. For 2012 Bradshaw are installing quick response codes on each vehicle so our transport drivers can send the ‘turn around’ team the exact identity of each vehicle on the transporter and its estimated time of arrival. This will enable the team to plan precisely the turn-around schedule for each vehicle so it is ready in the shortest possible time. All this planning and precision vehicle movement means event organisers can
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be assured all the vehicles booked will arrive, on-time, clean, fully fuelled and in perfect condition for the event. So if you have not booked your vehicles for a summer event in 2012 – Book now with Bradshaws.
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IOEX PREVIEW
IOEX exhibitor 2CL Communications supplies Two-Way Radio Systems to the Events Industry (above: Glastonbury Festival)
Show promises something different for the outdoor sector THE brand new International Outdoor Event Expo (IOEX) launches this March, bringing something different to the outdoor event sector. Industry leading seminars, networking, and some interesting exhibitor names make the show at ExCel London a must visit for the live production industry. Organised alongside the successful International Confex, the show covers all areas of event production from festivals through to sports and experiential and is tailored for those at the sharp edge of event organising. Show director Mark Gordon said: “IOEX is designed to cross the boundaries and draw together the worlds of sport, experiential and music and
recognise that production teams increasingly work across all these sectors. Visitors to the show at ExCeL from March 6 to 8 will be able to source from international suppliers, network with people from all sectors of the events industry and learn from the educational seminar programme featuring tips and tricks from production greats.” Seminar Programme The seminar programme represents the diversification of the outdoor events industry with a different theme and overview for each of the three days, sport on the 6th, live music on the 7th and experiential on the 8th.
The topics and speakers have been drawn from research conducted by IOEX which highlighted that people in the industry are keen to learn more about technology and how to use emerging platforms at their events. Key highlights include: Tuesday March 6 ‘Building projection – make the world move’ allows visitors to hear established production agencies share their top tips on how to use cutting edge building projection. ‘How to ensure you carry on the conversation’ showcases experiential, and social media experts The Circle Agency discuss how to give your event and
brand a strong presence in the realms of social media. For venues and suppliers, ‘Beyond the core’ offers an invitation to learn from a panel of experts from established sports venues through to music promoters to find out how to appeal to new event verticals. Stepping out into the global market is a bold move so suppliers who have done it before give the benefit of their experience in ‘Are you ready for the global market?’ Discussion includes branding continuity, crossing customs, laws and regulations, and the debate on using local suppliers or taking your trusted people with you. Continued on page 20
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Total Displays is showcasing its X-Gloo Event Tent at IOEX, which is being organised by Mark Gordon. Continued from page 19 Wednesday March 7 Lord Shaftesbury leads an interactive session on how to transform an estate into an event space drawing on the current transformation of the Shaftesbury Estate. Promoters discuss what makes a venue desirable to them. ‘Cashless payments and ticketing on the festival scene’ profiles the future of transactions in the live music space, the festivals using them, the brands keen to put their name to them and predictions for the future with Inteletix and Mobile Roadie. PSA chairman and event planning and compliance consultant James Cobb will
be on hand to host ‘Houston! Effective management and contingency planning for festivals’ with expert comment from Jim Gaffney from Mojo Barriers and Roskilde Festival Manager Henrik Bondo Neilsen. Thursday March 8 In the world of experiential and brands, it’s all about engagement with your core audience and how to stand out from the crowd, using the snazziest technology and the freshest venues. Explore the world of brand and event sponsorship from all angles, discussing what is needed and how decisions are made with Julia Bruns from agency Our
Kid Brother, Chris Smith, head of business development and live events, AEG, and Jade Garrow from Boxfresh. ‘The F Factor, What do families look for at events?’ invites you to learn from family engagement specialist Carrie Longton of Mumsnet about how to engage all ages at your event and the Lollibop team who have put this into practice. Show floor feature areas The exhibition will also feature a number of interactive sessions to get people talking and encourage networking. This includes a ‘speed networking’ session for landowners looking to extend the use of their estates or land
by making them available for events. Landowners will meet event agencies and organisers for a quick five-minute pitch against the clock and in return, organisers will be able to find unique and untapped spaces to hold their next event. The Innovation Incubator opens up the floor for companies with new products or services launching soon or within the last six months. In rapid 10-minute pitches which are taking place across all three days of the exhibition, companies can preview their innovation making it easy for visitors to find all the latest launches in one place. Continued on page 22
Sunbaba to showcase complete event solution
Neptunus goes global with new addition
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TEMPORARY structures specialist Neptunus gives visitors the chance to experience a popular addition to its product portfolio at the International Outdoor Event Expo (IOEX). Neptunus will construct a 5m x 10m Alure Globe at Stand 210 at the inaugural event at ExCel London. The Alure Globe provides a venue for a wide variety of prestigious outdoor events. Last year, its popularity meant it could be seen at events including Wimbledon, Cannon Bridge Roof Gardens, Masterpiece Fair, the Pavilion of Art in Design in Paris and Bread & Butter
in Berlin. Having evolved from Neptunus’ Alure range, the Alure Globe has the added visual appeal of an innovative curved roof. It is also equipped with a cassette floor, high quality entrance, emergency exit doors and integrated rain guttering systems. Available in unlimited lengths, it has a durable aluminium frame, 4m high wall panels and full vision glazed panels. Enquiries: Telephone managing director April Trasler on 0116 232 5100 or write to The Old Rectory, Main Street, Glenfield, Leicestershire, LE3 8DG.
INTERNATIONAL Outdoor Event Expo will feature a brand new stand from one of the event industry’s leading branding specialists. Sunbaba will continue their promotion of the three new product ranges that were successfully launched in Autumn 2011. The stand will allow visitors to get a precise look at the new items and will be a combined area with specialist event supplier SRD. Two highly versatile new promotional items and a new type of digitally printed flooring will be on display, with the Sunbaba team on hand to discuss the ways in which the products can be used and applied. The new items will extend the offering available from the company and enable the highly creative demands of their clients to be met. Sunbaba’s Jan Booth said: “We have been involved with IOEX since it was first launched. It comes at precisely the right time of year as it offers organisers the chance to research the products we provide in a professional and well presented environment.” The success of the new product ranges was highlighted by the company’s recent nomination for best set design/finishing touches at the newly launched Event Production Awards. Sunbaba, which has been helping to brand events around the UK and Europe for over 15 years, can be found on stand number 420 at the show.
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The Main Event will also be exhibiting at IOEX – Come and see us on N7 within the NOEA Pavilion Eve is showcasing its expansive range of trakway systems at IOEX.
Exhibitors to launch new products Continued from page 20 On the show floor, key exhibitors will be launching new products as well as those that have built outstanding feature areas for the seminars and interactive activities. Losberger is launching ‘Cyclone’ a new structure for the event rental market in the form of a 5m x 5m unit that can be added to in a variety of configurations to suit any event. This is set apart by the eye-catching design of the roof
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which is unlike anything seen before. Total Displays is showcasing its X-Gloo Event Tent for which it holds exclusive rights in the UK. This is an inflatable structure designed for quick and convenient installation at indoor or outdoor events, transported and installed by one person within ten minutes and operating without the need for an ongoing air supply. These can be connected via tunnel elements and fully branded.
The Lollibop team has successfully managed to attract people of all ages to the event.
Silverstream TV will be broadcasting a live stream of the IOEX action on screens installed throughout the exhibition by Fonix LED and Big TV. Eve is showcasing its expansive range of trakway systems highlighting its diversification into crowd control barrier systems, temporary security and safety fencing such as the Event Trakpanel, as well as its acquisition of event and industrial mobile tower lighting supplier, Brightlights.
Ten by Fifteen is creating a two tiered structure in a central show position which will host networking on the ground floor and the top level will provide a bird’s eye view of the whole exhibition as well as International Confex in the adjoining hall. Another key focal point on the show floor comes from Element Domes which is constructing its unique and futuristic structure to create the setting for Innovation Incubator.
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NEW PRODUCTS AND SERVICES
Firm expands artist security service
Nick Grecian, MD of Gallowglass and Kirsten Henson, MD of KLH Sustainability officially open Gallowglass Sustainability’s new West London office.
Crew company branches out EVENTS crewing firm Gallowglass has launched a new company – Gallowglass Sustainability. The firm has joined forces with managing director of KLH Sustainability Kirsten Henson to create a service to assist clients, suppliers and contractors in making cost savings and improving public relations by sustainably planning events. Gallowglass managing director Nick Grecian said: “Clients such as the BBC
and Eve Trakway have already pledged to embed sustainability throughout their organisations’ working practices, and we are committed to sharing their values. As a company, we have already achieved BS8901 and ISO14001, but we need to take this to the next level. Kirsten Henson is ideally placed to ensure that sustainability policies convert into practical reality throughout the supply chain.”
A CARDIFF based personal protection company has expanded its offering to include full tour management services. Primus Protective Consultants, which has worked with acts including Stereophonics and Beady Eye, has branched out into tour management following the success of its specialised security service. As part of its tour management role, the firm will be responsible for all aspects of the acts' security and tour management – from travel arrangements and liaising with hotels to securing concert venues thoroughly and ensuring all security measures are adequate prior to the artist's arrival. They will also co-ordinate and oversee all of the artists' promotional commitments including press and radio interviews, TV appearances and book and album signings. Managing director Sean Colsey said: “The expansion into providing a tour management function for clients has been a natural progression for us. We found that we were increasingly being asked by record labels if we could also tour manage the acts we provided security for. For the client we can fulfil a valuable dual function and facilitate the smooth running of schedules for their artists in addition to ensuring their safety.”
Primus Protective Consultants has worked with acts including Beady Eye and Kelly Jones and the Stereophonics (pictured above)
Bathing system is ready to use in hours
Dressing your event HARRISON External Display Systems (HEDS) can help dress any event, however large or small. A UK manufacturer of flags, flagpoles and event products, HEDS has been established for over 40 years and has been supplying the events industry for over ten. Its sales team offers a full service to help brand an event with various products whatever the quantity and budget. A special Projects team can also cater for installations. HEDS has supplied major events, such as fence scrim and tobe towers for
the Virgin London Marathon, 360 degree tubular banners for Glastonbury and fan assisted flagpoles for the Olympics. The flagpole hire and installation services were used at BBC Proms in the Park. Whatever the event, budget and requirements, be it bunting or banners, HEDS can brand any product with any logo. If you can’t find what you’re looking for, they will help you make it. Enquiries: For more information, see the new brochure enclosed in this magazine, visit www.flagpoles.co.uk or call 01325 355 433.
BATHPAQ is a bathroom system in one complete package, that can be installed and ready to use within hours. This new design concept launched by Rocal offers a cost effective solution to all bathroom requirements and arrives in an IKEA-style package complete with installation instructions. Bathpaq is ideal for the more challenging and inaccessible locations. The electrics are plug and play, straight in to a 13-amp socket, so no electrician is required. The internal plumbing is pre fitted, and the walls, floor and ceiling are pre finished. This reduces the onsite labour costs and considerably speeds up the installation time. The segmental walls and shower are of a moisture resistant design manufactured from high quality PVCu polymers. Even the door and its outer casing are made from PVCu making the Bathpaq resilient to moisture. Bathpaq can be supplied with an
optional Saniflo macerator pump for areas without gravity fed plumbing offering greater flexibility of location. The macerator pump is capable of pumping waste up to four metres vertically and 40 metres horizontally. Bathpaq is suitable for commercial as well as domestic applications including temporary events and hospitality. Due to high interest, Rocal is planning to launch new sizes and models over the forthcoming year. Visit www.bathpaq.co.uk or telephone 01652 600184.
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CLASSIFIED AIR DISPLAYS
BARS
BALLOONS
BIG TOPS
CAR AND VAN RENTAL
CCTV HIRE
EVENT BRANDING
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CATERING
CROWD MANAGEMENT
EVENT HIRE
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CLASSIFIED FAIRGROUND
EVENT PRODUCTION
FIREWORKS
FESTIVALS
HEATING AND COOLING
LARGE SCREEN HIRE
PORTABLE KITCHENS
FREIGHT
MEDICAL
PORTABLE ROADWAYS
POWER
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CLASSIFIED POWER
RADIO HIRE
RECYCLING
REVOLVING STAGES
SILENT DISCOS
STAGE HIRE
STAGE HIRE
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CLASSIFIED TOILETS
ADVERTISE HERE
WATER SUPPLIES
TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT
WASTE MANAGEMENT
VEHICLE HIRE
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