The Association of Event Venues (AEV) brought together over 280 event professionals for their largest ever annual conference at Excel London, with a dynamic programme exploring the theme “Accelerate. Shaping the future of venues.”
Sam McNeill, atex, hosted the event for the first time, welcoming attendees with a song and a rundown of the day before introducing Rob May, the opening keynote, who shared practical ideas for delegates to start or continue their AI journey and identified opportunities to enhance customer experience and operational efficiency using “assisted” intelligence.
Following a short refreshment break, the power panel discussed new growth engines, followed by an enlightening discussion around the Protection of Premises Act and an update on the political landscape with Tom Bradley, Cavendish.
Henry Rose Lee, generational expert and consultant, opened the afternoon session by navigating generational dynamics and sharing how to maximise everyone in the workforce. Beverley Churchill followed with a look at venues through a retail lens.
James Swanston, CEO, Voyage Control, said, “We’re always pleased to support the AEV annual conference. It’s a fantastic opportunity to hear directly from member venues and share how we can help event teams streamline logistics and improve the exhibitor experience.”
Rachel Parker, director, AEV, said, “Thank you to our speakers, sponsors, partners and exhibitors and, of course, our host venue, Excel London. Support this year has been exceptional, resulting in our biggest conference to date with over 280 delegates.”
Sam McNeill closed the day with the three-minute mic – allowing delegates to ask whatever questions they had, no filters.
The event was preceded by the icebreaker event held at Fame Factory, part of Excel London’s Immerse London offering and co-sponsored by Full Circle Events and Exhibitions Ltd and Showsec International. Delegates joined the AEV run club prior to the day starting, and a breakfast session hosted by Momentus Technologies. Several university students and lecturers also attended the event as part of the AEV Academic Associate programme.
Parker continued, “Having the opportunity to bring the events community together is always a joy, and an even greater pleasure to see them enjoying the dynamic programme we planned for them. I am grateful for the support of our steering group for their time and experience in pulling it all together. I think this year’s programme has certainly given delegates food for thought on how they may accelerate the shape of the future.”
Learn more about AEV here.
