01
29/10/10
11:45
Page 1
Issue 45 November 2010 £4.75
2012 ticket plans unveiled
Events ‘could shape future of Britain’ By Christina Eccles THE events industry could hold the key to future economic prosperity in the UK, a new report has claimed. The Britain for Events report – commissioned by the Business Visits and Events Partnership – has explored the size and value of the industry and where future opportunities could lie. According to the report, the industry is now worth more than £36bn a year to the economy – with outdoor events and festivals accounting for over £2bn. Figures show that sporting events are valued at £2.3bn, music events at £1.4bn, festivals and cultural events at £1.1bn and outdoor events at £1bn. And chair of the Business Visits and Events Partnership Michael Hirst said in the report that events have the ability to shape Britain’s future. He said: “The report is one of a number of initiatives undertaken by the BVEP to position the sector at the forefront of thinking by both the government and the wider business community. “It identifies trends and opportunities and highlights key issues and challenges which, if not addressed, could undermine Britain’s position as one of the leading players in this highly com-
petitive, global marketplace. “Properly supported, Britain’s events can help rebuild and re-balance Britain’s economic prosperity.” The Association of Independent Festivals represents some of the UK’s most popular events including Creamfields, Standon Calling, The Secret Garden Party and Bestival. AIF general manager Claire O Neill told The Main Event that outdoor events and festivals have a valuable role to play in the industry’s success, which should be recognised. She explained: “Independent festivals make a significant contribution not only culturally, but also to the local and UK economy. Not only does every B&B, pub and hotel in the area fill up; lots of local shops stay open to benefit from the extra custom.” Claire also said that AIF’s own research also confirms that independent festivals generate large amounts of money for the economy – by encouraging festivalgoers to spend in the local area which is good for businesses. She added: “Our own members’ survey showed that AIF festivals generate over £13m for the UK economy, £16.3m for local businesses in audience spend alone.”
THE ticket pricing structure has been revealed for the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games – with organisers claiming to have made the event as accessible as possible. The first tickets go on sale next March with a total of 8.8m seats available across 26 sports. According to LOCOG’s ticketing strategy, 90 per cent of these tickets will be priced at £100 or under, with 2.5m tickets having a price tag of £20 and under. Olympics minister Hugh Robertson said: “Spectators are a vital part of every Olympic Games, providing the atmosphere that inspires athletes to perform. I am confident we will have packed stadiums and venues with the range of tickets on offer meaning that people of all ages and budgets will have the chance to attend London 2012.” 100,000 tickets will also be made available for school children, while a pay your age scheme will allow cheaper seats for those aged 16 and under at some events. A star-studded concert at Cardiff’s Millennium Stadium got the Ryder Cup off to a winning start. Performers including Dame Shirley Bassey and Katherine Jenkins joined golf fan Catherine Zeta-Jones on stage to welcome the world to Wales for the sporting spectacular. Push4 / Greenfield was commissioned by Ryder Cup Wales 2010 to organise the concert. Full story, Page 4
The Main Event is the official magazine of the National Outdoor Events Association