the event issue 2

Issue 02 | 2016

+ MEETINGS AFRICA 2016 Advancing Africa Together

+ INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY: A HOT BUTTON ISSUE ConCept G calls for further debate

MEETINGS AFRICA 2016

+MEETINGS AFRICA 2016

Advancing Africa Together

+INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY: A HOT BUTTON ISSUE

ConCept G calls for further debate

+ MEETINGS AFRICA 2016 Advancing Africa Together

+ INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY: A HOT BUTTON ISSUE ConCept G calls for further debate

www.theevent.co.za 01CONTENTS

INTELLECTUAL PROPERTYConCept G presents another hot-button topic in their series of

thought-leadership articles.

02. Exsa Members Give Insight

into 2016 Trends

05. Dragonfly Africa

Management Buyout

06. ICCA Ranking Recap

08. Intellectual Property:

A Hot-Button Issue

10. Spotlight on PCOs in Africa

12. Meetings Africa 2016

Show Preview

23. Part 3 of 6: Convention

Planning Support

29. Tech Talk: Photo Booth

Technology

30. An A-Z Guide to Planning

Your Association

Conference: Part 2 of 2

34. Mega Event Venues

36. Events to Diarise

38. Associations News

40. Directory of Advertisers

VENUES FOR MEGA EVENTSPlanning a massive event and need a venue? Imogen Campbell brings

you a rundown of the most well-known.

CONVENTION PLANNING SUPPORTThe SANCB brings you part 3 of a 6 part series.

MEETINGS AFRICA 2016Welcome one and all to Africa’s premier business event. Turn to page 12

for our special feature.

02 SPOTLIGHT www.theevent.co.za

Exhibitions are one of the most effective mediums for establishing and maintaining customer relations. In an increasingly digital age, they

are the only medium in which buyer, seller and product physically come together – a potent force for any business.

The exhibition industry has received positive feedback after a recent barometer was released, showing its growth on an international scale. A group of key Exhibition and Event Industry of South Africa (EXSA) members sat down to discuss what we can expect from EXSA in 2016, as well as the key trends for the coming year.

What can we expect from EXSA in 2016?According to Sue Gannon, General Manager of EXSA, “Next year will be a bumper year for EXSA. We’ve got major shows in Durban including the Aids conference. In Johannesburg, we have the Electro-Mining Exhibition, SA Automotive Week and AAD, which is the Africa Aerospace and Defence show at Waterkloof Airbase. These shows attract international attention and bring in a lot of work for our industry”.

The annual EXSA conference will be held at the end of January 2016 and there are plans to address some of the pressing issues within the industry. “We are looking at upscaling and certifying various sectors within the industry alongside international health and safety training for our workers”, explains Sue.

Brad Alder, EXSA Chairman, emphasises that another of the objectives to be addressed at the annual EXSA conference is the recognition of prior experience for those working in the industry. “This goes a long way to standardising and professionalising the industry”.

Trends for 2016• Custom stands are not sustainable in

today’s economy: “In a shrinking economy, the pressure is on to look

after your expenses while maximising effi ciencies”, believes Brad. Cladding existing material with fabric or board

is an international trend that is becoming more and more prominent. • It’s all about adding value: “The challenge is for EXSA to show

value to members and, in a private capacity, show value to clients. In tough

times, people are looking for extra mileage for less. It’s up to us to show

return on investments”, highlights Andrew Binning, Chairman of the

Organiser Forum.• Social media and technology: Nigel

Walker, the Immediate Past Chair of EXSA, states that mergers of local and international companies are changing the dynamic in the industry, bringing in

EXSA MEMBERS GIVE INSIGHT INTO TRENDS FOR 2016

Bradley Alder, EXSA chairperson Andrew Binning, Chairman of the Organiser Forum EXSA

innovation in terms of apps and social media. Demand will be made on venues and organisers to reinvent what they do and how they do it.

• Venues are no longer traditional: You no longer have to have an exhibition centre to have an exhibition.

Trends for 2016 include venues such as rugby fi elds with marquees being used

to hold events. This diversifi es the exhibition industry in South Africa and

opens up the industry in Africa to the rest of the world. Africa is a growing

market and South Africa is seen as the gateway.

Andrew Billing stresses that the industry is going from strength to strength and concludes by saying, “The event industry in general is quite dynamic and in order to remain at the cutting edge, we will continue being creative and dynamic in our approach to ways to grow the industry”.

04 SANDTON CONVENTION CENTRE www.theevent.co.za

Sandton Convention Centre (SCC), in the heart of South Africa’s bustling business hub, is prepared for a busy 2016, reaching a new

level of heightened business hosting, with the average number of large international business and lifestyle events growing signifi cantly, supported by repeat signature events such as the Standard Bank Joy of Jazz, Meetings Africa and Winex.

This year’s calendar is characterised by a variety of influential summits, exhibitions and conferences, featuring headline events such as the two-week CITES CoP17 event for the 181 CITES signatory countries; the inaugural Arnold Classic South Africa sports festival of more than 42 sporting codes, which is to be attended by legendary bodybuilder Arnold Schwarzenegger himself; a wide range of consumer edutainment and entertainment events, as well as international and local public sector, trade and lifestyle events.

“Fifteen years on, in a highly competitive environment, SCC and Johannesburg are riding a great wave and are having our true potential recognised as the African epicentre of business engagement,” says Dr Mati Nyazema, Executive Director of Sandton Convention Centre.

Among the international events at the SCC in 2016 is the Forever Living Products global rally for thousands of Forever business owners; the Annual ICC Banking Commission

Meeting; the Africa & Middle East Conference of Junior Chamber International; Gateway to Space, featuring an extensive collection that depicts the story of NASA and the history of space travel; the Commercial UAV (unmanned aerial vehicle) Show Africa confex; the DISCOP TV loves Africa expo; and many more.

On the local scene, highlights include Meetings Africa, one of the continent’s most signifi cant annual business-tourism events. In 2015, it attracted close to 200 international hosted buyers, 50 African associations and 500 corporate travel buyers. The event showcases Africa’s diverse offering of global meetings services and products where African associations and African meetings industry professionals can partner to help transform the continent.

Nyazema says, “Meetings Africa is an iconic industry event that SCC has been proud to host since its inception 11 years ago. It highlights Africa’s steady climb in the world rankings as a preferred business destination. South Africa is now ranked 32nd most popular destination globally on the International Congress and Convention Association’s (ICCA) global rankings, having hosted 124 international recognised association conferences during 2014, up from its 2013 ranking of 34th, and in sharp contrast to the 12 global events held in 1994.”

Other local events in 2016 include the Proudly South African Buy Local Summit and Expo; the International Franchise Expo, a Franchise Association of SA initiative; and the Joburg Art Fair, which plays a pivotal role in supporting the burgeoning contemporary arts landscape in Africa, providing a space for leading artists, galleries, collectors, writers, thinkers and art lovers to congregate. For wine and whisky afi cionados, RMB WineX wine festival is in October and the FNB Whisky Live festival is in November.

“We’re proud of the amazing diversity of events from small to large-scale that we attract to Sandton Convention Centre, but more particularly, of the fact that more than 60% of our bookings are repeat business, indicating a strong degree of satisfaction with our overall offering,” notes Nyazema.

The SCC features:• Ideal location in the heart of Sandton,

South Africa’s business hub• 22 000m2 of flexible event space over four

main levels, with venues ranging from an intimate 10-seat function room to the grand Pavilion, which can comfortably cater for 4 500 cocktail guests

• Technologically advanced facilities• Striking contemporary Afro-chic décor• A wide range of accommodation

options within walking distance• Direct links to renowned exclusive

shopping precincts with numerous restaurant choices

• Easy access to the Gautrain rapid rail service

• Easy access to Johannesburg and other places of interest

• Ample safe parking• A friendly, professional and effi cient team.

For more information on Sandton Convention Centre, log on to www.saconvention.co.za, join the Facebook page on www.facebook.com/SandtonConventionCentre or follow on Twitter at @SandtonEvents.

SCC ROLLS FROM ONE JAM-PACKED YEAR TO ANOTHER

www.theevent.co.za 05NEWS

DRAGONFLY AFRICA MANAGEMENT BUYOUT

The Dragonfly Africa Group, Southern and East Africa’s leading travel and destination management company, is

proud to announce that a management buyout of the business has been concluded. CEO Mike Waller and three other executives, Yolanda Woeke-Jacobs, Director of Sales and Marketing, Barry Schreiber, Director of Finance, and Kerry Roos, Director of Operations and Product Development, will immediately acquire additional shares.

The acquisition was fi nalised on 15 January 2016 and includes both Dragonfly Africa and Green Route Africa with a combined staff of 55 people. Mr Rupert Jeffries, Executive Chairman, will remain the majority shareholder over a minimum period of four years, after which time the shareholders will be able to acquire all of the remaining shares in Dragonfly Africa and Green Route Africa.

“We are all extremely pleased we have been able to conclude this agreement as an entirely internal matter, with no

outside parties or institutions involved. It was certainly a challenging and complex negotiation, but the most important ingredient in the end, I believe, was the trust between us all after many years of knowing and understanding each other and the personality of our business,” he said. “I fi nd it very gratifying to envisage our Group, and our future, in the hands of the very people who have invested so much of their time and expertise over the years, and who were intimately involved in the success of the Group as it stands today.”

Dragonfly Africa’s Executive Chairman Rupert Jeffries has announced that four of their executives will acquire additional company shares.

c: 082 983 6036

“re-event” (verb) To revitalize your event through innovation

06 FEATURE www.theevent.co.za

The International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) is a knowledge hub for the international association

meetings industry. As authority in this sector, it is representative of the experts who plan and organise these association-related meetings. It releases ranking data annually relating to the number of worldwide and regional meetings per country and city. We have extracted the best with special emphasis on South Africa.

The annual ICCA data for Association Meetings held worldwide in 2015 will be released mid-year 2016. In preparation for the release, we revisit the 2014 data considering South Africa’s achievements.

ICCA RANKINGS

Worldwide ranking: number of meetings per countryRank Country # Meetings

1. U.S.A 831

2. Germany 659

3. Spain 578

4. United Kingdom 543

5. France 533

6. Italy 452

7. Japan 337

8. China 332

9. Netherlands 307

10. Brazil 291

32. South Africa 124

56. Morocco 36

68. Kenya 24

75. Egypt 13

79. Senegal 10

91. Ivory Coast 7

South Africa was ranked at 32 out of a possible 111 countries worldwide, with a total of 11 505 meetings held.

Worldwide ranking: number of meetings per cityRank Country # Meetings

1. Paris 214

2. Vienna 202

3. Madrid 200

4. Berlin 193

5. Barcelona 182

6. London 166

7. Singapore 142

8. Amsterdam 133

9. Istanbul 130

10. Prague 118

41. Cape Town 58

101. Johannesburg 23

125. Durban 19

266. Stellenbosch 8

The South African cities, Cape Town, Johannesburg, Durban and Stellenbosch featured on the worldwide list ranked out of a total of 365 cities, with a total of 11 565 meetings held.

Africa rankings: number of meetings per countryRank Country # Meetings

1. South Africa 124

2. Morocco 36

3. Kenya 24

4. Egypt 13

5. Senegal 10

6. Ivory Coast 7

6. Tunisia 7

6. Uganda 7

7. Ghana 6

7. Nigeria 6

7. Tanzania 6

7. Zambia 6

8. Algeria 5

8. Cameroon 5

8. Ethopia 5

8. Rwanda 5

8. Zimbabwe 5

17 Countries were listed with a total of 308 meetings held. South Africa was top of the list for Africa with almost triple the amount of meetings of its nearest competitor, Morocco, and 100 more than Kenya who secured third place. It also hosted 40% of the region’s meetings in total.

Africa rankings: number of meetings per cityRank Country # Meetings

1. Cape Town 58

2. Johannesburg 23

3. Marrakech 21

4. Durban 19

5. Nairobi 16

6. Dakar 9

7. Stellenbosch 8

8. Cairo 6

9. Abidjan 5

9. Addis Ababa 5

9. Kampala 5

9. Kigali 5

9. Mombasa 5

9. Victoria Falls 5

9. Yaounde 5

15 cities were listed with a total of 310 meetings held. The South African cities, Cape Town, Johannesburg, Durban and Stellenbosch were in the top half of the 15-city list. Cape Town held the most meetings at 58; more than double that of Johannesburg at 23.

The data covered for the other regions as follows: In Europe, 40 countries were listed with a total number of 6 316 meetings held, meanwhile 206 cities hosted a total of 6 348 meetings.The Asia Pacific & Middle East 29 countries were listed with a total number of 2 417 meetings held, while 79 cities hosted a total of 2 427 meetings .In Latin— & North America, 25 countries were listed with a total number of 2 464 meetings held, 104 cities hosted a total of 2 480 meetings.


Ignorance has many virtues, amongst them the fact that it tends to produce a feeling of self-confidence which allows one to contemplate large projects with

a sense of complete equanimity.”*Globally, intellectual property (IP)

violations remain a global concern and this is for good reason. For design houses and in the context of the exhibition and events industry, concept ideas are expensive to produce and the fixed costs of producing knowledge are high. There is the cost of acquiring the extensive and sophisticated hardware and software and the maintenance thereof, the designer’s salary and cost to company, and incentive and performance related bonuses and commissions, where applicable.

It is crucial for designers who are employed in any organisation, to understand the parameters around the IP, copyright and the related company’s property. The company would have a defined policy on intellectual property that protects the company, concepts and or programme design and development created by an individual whilst under the employ of said company, which all fall under the property

and ownership of the company and not the individual. Individuals who wrestle with this concept should perhaps consider taking the risk like other business owners have and go out on their own, without stealing the IP from their employer, of course.

The bottom line is that as an employee, any design or concept or programme that is produced by said employee does not belong to that employee because the employee is employed to design and produce the designs, concepts and programmes and is remunerated accordingly. If they choose to resign from said employ, they are not allowed to take any IP with them.

An interesting debate lies in the case of a consultant or agency - the consultant or agency would brief an exhibition design company or design house on the end client’s requirements.

To whom does the design belong?We have already touched on the hot

topic of ‘should exhibition companies charge for designs?’ In the case of the agency or consultant in the exhibition and event industry, currently we do not charge our clients for design work – therefore an agency or consultant is not actually

paying for the design, only the services to realise the exhibition stand, which lends itself to the fact that said design is the property of the exhibition company.

It is less about the product and more about the creation of the product.

If the creation of the product is paid for by a client, to whom does the design belong?

Intellectual property (IP) definition: ‘’is a term referring to creations of the intellect for which a monopoly is assigned to designated owners by law. Some common types of intellectual property rights (IPR) are trademarks, copyright, patents, industrial design rights, and in some countries, trade secrets: all these cover music, literature, and other artistic works; discoveries and inventions; words, phrases, symbols, and designs. While intellectual property law has evolved over centuries, it was not until the 19th century that the term intellectual property began to be used, and not until the late 20th century that it became commonplace in the majority of the world.’’

What is Intellectual Property? It is “intangible property right’’ it describes the ideas, concepts, inventions, technologies, artworks, music and literature, that are intangible when first created, but become valuable in tangible form as products. Suffice it to say that IP is ‘’the commercial application of imaginative thought to solving technical or artistic challenge. It is not the product itself, but the special idea behind it, the way the idea is expressed, and the distinctive way it is named and described.’’*

Why “property”? the term applies only to inventions, works and names for which a person or group of persons claim ownership. Ownership is important because ‘’experience

INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY: A HOT-BUTTON ISSUEThis call for further discussion is brought to you by ConCept G.

“

Many members are often asked to quote on designs which are clearly marked as the property of another company and would refuse to do so. It is unquestionably unethical to do so and this very point is in the EXSA Suppliers Forum Code of Conduct Guidelines.


Ignorance has many virtues, amongst them the fact that it tends to produce a feeling of self-confidence which allows one to contemplate large projects with

a sense of complete equanimity.”*Globally, intellectual property (IP)

violations remain a global concern and this is for good reason. For design houses and in the context of the exhibition and events industry, concept ideas are expensive to produce and the fixed costs of producing knowledge are high. There is the cost of acquiring the extensive and sophisticated hardware and software and the maintenance thereof, the designer’s salary and cost to company, and incentive and performance related bonuses and commissions, where applicable.

It is crucial for designers who are employed in any organisation, to understand the parameters around the IP, copyright and the related company’s property. The company would have a defined policy on intellectual property that protects the company, concepts and or programme design and development created by an individual whilst under the employ of said company, which all fall under the property

and ownership of the company and not the individual. Individuals who wrestle with this concept should perhaps consider taking the risk like other business owners have and go out on their own, without stealing the IP from their employer, of course.

The bottom line is that as an employee, any design or concept or programme that is produced by said employee does not belong to that employee because the employee is employed to design and produce the designs, concepts and programmes and is remunerated accordingly. If they choose to resign from said employ, they are not allowed to take any IP with them.

An interesting debate lies in the case of a consultant or agency - the consultant or agency would brief an exhibition design company or design house on the end client’s requirements.

To whom does the design belong?We have already touched on the hot

topic of ‘should exhibition companies charge for designs?’ In the case of the agency or consultant in the exhibition and event industry, currently we do not charge our clients for design work – therefore an agency or consultant is not actually

paying for the design, only the services to realise the exhibition stand, which lends itself to the fact that said design is the property of the exhibition company.

It is less about the product and more about the creation of the product.

If the creation of the product is paid for by a client, to whom does the design belong?

Intellectual property (IP) definition: ‘’is a term referring to creations of the intellect for which a monopoly is assigned to designated owners by law. Some common types of intellectual property rights (IPR) are trademarks, copyright, patents, industrial design rights, and in some countries, trade secrets: all these cover music, literature, and other artistic works; discoveries and inventions; words, phrases, symbols, and designs. While intellectual property law has evolved over centuries, it was not until the 19th century that the term intellectual property began to be used, and not until the late 20th century that it became commonplace in the majority of the world.’’

What is Intellectual Property? It is “intangible property right’’ it describes the ideas, concepts, inventions, technologies, artworks, music and literature, that are intangible when first created, but become valuable in tangible form as products. Suffice it to say that IP is ‘’the commercial application of imaginative thought to solving technical or artistic challenge. It is not the product itself, but the special idea behind it, the way the idea is expressed, and the distinctive way it is named and described.’’*

Why “property”? the term applies only to inventions, works and names for which a person or group of persons claim ownership. Ownership is important because ‘’experience

INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY: A HOT-BUTTON ISSUEThis call for further discussion is brought to you by ConCept G.

“

Many members are often asked to quote on designs which are clearly marked as the property of another company and would refuse to do so. It is unquestionably unethical to do so and this very point is in the EXSA Suppliers Forum Code of Conduct Guidelines.

www.theevent.co.za 09FEATURE

has shown that potential economic gain provides a powerful incentive to innovate.”

The Stockholm Convention, which established the World Intellectual Property Organization, states that intellectual property includes the rights relating to:• literary,artisticandscientificworks• performances of performing artists,

phonograms, and broadcasts• inventionsinallfieldsofhuman

endeavour,scientificdiscoveries• industrial designs• trademarks, service marks, and

commercial names and designations• protection against unfair competition• all other rights resulting from

intellectual activity in the industrial scientific,literaryorartisticfields

Sue Gannon of EXSA says, “Intellectual Property (IP) and Copyright is a well debated issue within the exhibition industry. Louis Nel, the Association’s legal voice, held a workshop for our members on this very subject. At the time, he urged all members to put the Copyright sign “©” on everything. He also wrote a paragraph on this subject and urged members to use it. It is our understanding that if a designer is working

onaspecificstanddesignforaclientwhilst in the employ of a stand-designing company, then that design remains the property of the company who employs them. Many members are often asked to quote on designs that are clearly marked as the property of another company and would refuse to do so. It is unquestionably unethical to do so and this very point is in the EXSA Suppliers Forum Code of Conduct Guidelines.”

Conrad Kullman of the 3D Group says, “The 3D Group copywrites all design to the 3D Group. Copywrite or IP is more important to our industry than most, due to the fact that all our designs are unique and one-of-a-kind. When it comes to sales people leaving and approaching our clients, we have trade restraints in place to avoid this. This doesn’t always work out and its mostly the lawyers that make the money in this case.We do not quote on designs that are sent to us unless they are international clients. In this case we revert back to the client and explain our stance on this situation and their unethical behaviour.”

Liam Beattie of Hott3D says, “We are regularly sent design work done by other agencies for which permission to do so has not been attained. It is inherently dishonest of the sender and speaks volumes about that individual or company’smoralfibreorlackthereof.As such, we outright refuse to work with them. In effect we blacklist them for all future inquiries and also do our best to trace the source of the designs to advise them of what is going on. Unfortunately we also experience our design work being sent out for “cheaper” quotes. What the client in those instances fails to realise, is that having facilities to push out 3D designs and renders is very expensive and that cost to company is incorporated into project costs. Regrettably the days of paid pitches are long gone. If pitches

were paid for (and they should be) this kind of practice would occur far less”.

Doug Rix of DK Design feels that designers are continually inspired by the intake of visual stimulation all around them each day,butthatthereisafinelinebetweenincorporating elements of other people’s design ideas into one’s own design concept, versus copying designs outright. “We include “This is the Property of DK DESIGN” at the base of every presentation drawing.And, if our design is presented with another company’s design “to quote on”, we immediately try and advise all parties of the infringement”, says Doug.

The impression is often created that IP enforcement is about a conflict between the strong and the weak, the rich and the poor. It is seldom the case: ‘’It is not a moral tussle between the good and the bad, the small and the large. It is a fightoverprofitsbycompetitors.’’*

Whenyourealisethatthefirstpatentlaw was enacted in 1623, intellectual property is not an ancient principle. As the debate over the future of intellectual property unfolds, it will be more important than ever for companies and their employees to have good and sound information concerning the nature of IP.

“My words and my ideas are my property, and I’ll keep and protect them as surely as I do my stable of unicorns.” - Jarod Kintz

My words and my ideas are my property, and I’ll keep and protect them as surely as I do my stable of unicorns.

1* Charles van Onselen New Babylon New Nineveh (preface to the first edition) 2001.2* Mr. Justice Harms, Supreme Court of Appeal, South Africa3* BoehringerIngelheim KG v Swingward Ltd [2000] FSR 529 par 9.

Gill and Andrew Gibbs of ConCept G

www.theevent.co.za 10 FEATURE

It’s been said time and again by many in the industry and in many different ways – Africa is rising, and South Africa is in a pivotal position to facilitate

and be part of this continental growth. At the forefront is the business-events industry, introducing internationals to the natural wonders of the continent, its top-notch hospitality, and ever-developing convention and conference infrastructure.

The Year That WasMany PCOs have reported strong progression, new developments and, of course, some exciting events organised. We spoke to five of these top conference organisers to find out what their highlights were.

Conference Consultancy SA has seen many milestones, thanks to an intensive review of their mid- and long-term business plan. Says Danielle Henn, Operations Manager: “The success we saw in 2015 was mainly as a result of our 2014 goals and our 0% staff turnover – in fact, we added two more positions to our establishment to meet demand,” she explains. “In 2015 we organised more conferences than before, more efficiently and with greater effect...

Our client base expanded, and ultimately our Managing Director, Pieter Swart CMP CMM, was recognised by the Professional Congress Management Association (PCMA) as Global Meeting Executive of the Year 2015, awarded at IMEX Frankfurt. 2015 also saw our internal commitment to professional development with two of our executives studying towards their Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) designation.” Both Danielle Henn and Corné Engelbrecht passed this stringent exam on 27 January – adding to Conference Consultancy South Africa’s achievements.

2015 was an eventful year for Event Dynamics, a division of Tourvest Destination

Management. Says Gugu Buthelezi, Team Leader for the Government and Association Division: “Two of our biggest highlights include successfully organising the South African International Renewable Energy Conference in Cape Town, which saw 3 000 international and local delegates coming together to discuss issues around renewable energy. We also had some restructure within the team which has been implemented to create a focused approach in the association and government space, and to create opportunities to upskill current staff in this specialised space.”

MCI Group, whose association business

in SA is predominantly healthcare, finance and education, delivered a growth of almost 10% on gross margin – a great feat considering the current economic climate. “2015 was a growth year on a group level for MCI,” says Sylvia Andres, VP of Marketing and Communications, “New offices in the USA, new partnerships with global partners such as Emirates and Expedia are testimony to this…2015 was an investment year for MCI South Africa. That being said, we have started making in-roads with both the local corporate and association market and are optimistic for the years ahead.” In Africa,

Professional Conference Organisers play an integral role in our continent’s business-events growth trajectory. Kim Muller catches up with some of the companies working in this sector.

SPOTLIGHT ON PCOs IN AFRICA

The South African Property Owners Association Convention and Property Exhibition 2015, organised by Scatterlings Conference and Events © Scatterlings


It’s been said time and again by many in the industry and in many different ways – Africa is rising, and South Africa is in a pivotal position to facilitate

and be part of this continental growth. At the forefront is the business-events industry, introducing internationals to the natural wonders of the continent, its top-notch hospitality, and ever-developing convention and conference infrastructure.

The Year That WasMany PCOs have reported strong progression, new developments and, of course, some exciting events organised. We spoke to five of these top conference organisers to find out what their highlights were.

Conference Consultancy SA has seen many milestones, thanks to an intensive review of their mid- and long-term business plan. Says Danielle Henn, Operations Manager: “The success we saw in 2015 was mainly as a result of our 2014 goals and our 0% staff turnover – in fact, we added two more positions to our establishment to meet demand,” she explains. “In 2015 we organised more conferences than before, more efficiently and with greater effect...

Our client base expanded, and ultimately our Managing Director, Pieter Swart CMP CMM, was recognised by the Professional Congress Management Association (PCMA) as Global Meeting Executive of the Year 2015, awarded at IMEX Frankfurt. 2015 also saw our internal commitment to professional development with two of our executives studying towards their Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) designation.” Both Danielle Henn and Corné Engelbrecht passed this stringent exam on 27 January – adding to Conference Consultancy South Africa’s achievements.

2015 was an eventful year for Event Dynamics, a division of Tourvest Destination

Management. Says Gugu Buthelezi, Team Leader for the Government and Association Division: “Two of our biggest highlights include successfully organising the South African International Renewable Energy Conference in Cape Town, which saw 3 000 international and local delegates coming together to discuss issues around renewable energy. We also had some restructure within the team which has been implemented to create a focused approach in the association and government space, and to create opportunities to upskill current staff in this specialised space.”

MCI Group, whose association business

in SA is predominantly healthcare, finance and education, delivered a growth of almost 10% on gross margin – a great feat considering the current economic climate. “2015 was a growth year on a group level for MCI,” says Sylvia Andres, VP of Marketing and Communications, “New offices in the USA, new partnerships with global partners such as Emirates and Expedia are testimony to this…2015 was an investment year for MCI South Africa. That being said, we have started making in-roads with both the local corporate and association market and are optimistic for the years ahead.” In Africa,

Professional Conference Organisers play an integral role in our continent’s business-events growth trajectory. Kim Muller catches up with some of the companies working in this sector.

SPOTLIGHT ON PCOs IN AFRICA

The South African Property Owners Association Convention and Property Exhibition 2015, organised by Scatterlings Conference and Events © Scatterlings


they successfully activated two high-profile international association conferences for the Project Management Institute and the African Securities Exchange Association.

Scatterlings Conference and Events have seen some tremendous growth, having secured a number of significant, large international association conferences until 2018. 2015 was another year of stellar performance, says Managing Director Rowan Moss. “Highlights included the organisation of the World Congress of Pharmacology at the CTICC and the International Mineralogical Congress at the Sandton Convention Centre. Other key conferences included another spectacular SAPOA Convention, IFLA/LIASA Conference. Scatterlings continued is successful Medical congress with the WITS Paediatric Fund conferences, WITS golf day, ICPA Conference, SA HTA Conference, National Blood Transfusion Congress as well as the Microscopy Congress. Scatterlings also did extensive work in the construction sector with the Master Builders Southern Africa conference, the SACPCMP Conference and the WABER Conference in Ghana.”

Tribal Meetings has also seen growth, although not in the same way as 2014, says newly appointed CEO, Nadia Allie. “We have added four new clients to our database who gave us good turnover for 2015,” she explains, adding that they are in the process of expanding their DNC division to increase their flagship products whilst maintaining their presence in the conference arena. After fourteen years at the helm, Muhammad Khan has resigned as CEO and Allie, who has been Acting CEO for the last few years, has taken over the position.

Forging Ahead into New MarketsAlthough 2016 is set to be a year of consolidation for MCI Group’s business in South Africa, the company is growing

its Johannesburg offices, and plans are underway for a satellite branch in Durban. Andres says the future of MICE in Africa looks bright. “On an educational level, there is enormous potential for international associations to grow their membership by hosting congresses in Africa...strong currency exchange rates also make Africa a more attractive destination for the international market. For the incentive market, there are many spectacular, luxurious, yet affordable destinations in Africa, if you know where to look.” She goes on to say that South Africa’s place on the continent is secure: “Not only are there a huge number of South African professionals and academics gaining notable reputations on the international stage, the country itself is world-renowned for its beauty, diversity and hospitality.”

Scatterlings will continue with repeat business from Europe, after having organised conferences in Zambia, Mauritius, Rwanda, Ghana, Kenya and Namibia recently. A bulk of their 2016 conferences is located in the SADC, says Moss. “Scatterlings Conference and Events is organising all the conferences for the African Union Foundation and this exposes us to the entire African continent…Our big congress for 2016 is the World Psychiatry Congress at the CTICC.” He says South Africa will remain a powerhouse in the MICE market.

Tribal Meetings will continue investing in the USA. “We have done good business from the USA for the last 16 years and have grown in this market,” Allie explains, although she adds that Africa is the new economy. “If one considers that four of the fastest-growing economies in the world are in Africa, one in three people are moving towards becoming middle class in a population of 1.1 billion, that number presents a huge opportunity…The MICE industry should be poised to exploit this opportunity.”

Event Dynamics will focus on growing business in the Association and Government space says Buthelezi. “A crucial element of this space is to have skilled staff as this is how we win tenders; upskilling or developing the current team is therefore a key focus area for 2016.” She goes on to say she is confident in SA’s place in Africa’s growing business-events economy. “South Africa has always been the gateway into Africa for the business-events space. With the current status of the Rand, hosting conferences or events in South Africa is fast-becoming an attractive

PCO AchievementsThese are just a few of the high- level events and feats by PCOs, a testament to our industry’s ever-growing success. • MCI’s team successfully

produced a congress with over 14 000 participants while

managing two other huge congresses in Toronto (7 000 delegates) and Korea (7 000 delegates), MCI USA was launched, and won two ICARUS awards.

• Scatterlings have secured a number of international association conferences including: INTS 2016, SAVCA 2016, Rotary International Presidents Conference, World Council of Entersomal Therapists, SA HIV Clinicians Conference, South African Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism Congress, National Pharmacy Congress, World Psychiatry Congress 2016, Joint Assembly of IAMAS, IAPSO and IGA 2017, and International Congress of Endocrinology 2018 with 8 000 pax.

• Event Dynamics organised the South African International Renewable Evergy Conference with 3 000 pax, and SAIREC 2015.

• Conference Consultancy SA Managing Director, Pieter Swart CMP CMM, received the PCMA Global Meeting Executive of the Year 2015.

alternative option. Confirmed conferences in South Africa are seeing maximum capacities of international delegations which are also boosting our touristic portfolios.”

Conference Consultancy SA will be maintaining their business plan in 2016 and looking into the future to optimise their core competencies and build on the existing focus areas. “Our focus will remain on servicing our local clients, however some of these clients are broadening their scope into Africa and East Africa in particular,” Henn explains. “Generally, our off-shore expansion is with clients in North America and Europe, and we will continue to grow that business.”

There is enormous potential for international associations to grow their membership by hosting congresses in Africa.


The global meetings industry has turned its eye to Africa in recent years, and this has never been more apparent than the year-

on-year success that Meetings Africa has had in attracting business to the continent. By showcasing the wonderfully diverse products and services we have to offer, Meetings Africa is, as its name suggests, a meeting place where African associations and African meeting professionals can partner to transform the continent.

Last year saw a remarkable quality in meetings at the trade show, with James Seymour, CEO of Durban KZN Convention Bureau saying, “By the end of day one, we had three serious proposals on the table. This is exceptional by any standard and proves to us that Meetings Africa is an excellent place to do business with quality buyers.” A number of hosted buyers and delegates had their first experience last year, with many looking forward to returning. Exhibitors were just as delighted by the business platform, proving the show’s return on investment once again.

The eleventh edition of Meetings Africa already has a packed programme. The event kicks off with BONDAY (Business Opportunity Networking Day) on Monday, 22 February. The day is designed to provide educational and networking opportunities for the South African business-events industry. Association Day, the IMEX-MPI-MCI Future Leader Forum Africa, the AIPC Africa Summit, the Event Greening Forum AGM, a Business Events Associations Joint Conference, and an IAPCO Bespoke Seminar are all taking place at various times between 9am and 4:30pm. The following day sees the Opening Ceremony of Meetings Africa, along with Exhibition Day 1, the glamorous Gala Dinner, and the annual Media Face Off, while Day 3 sees things winding down with a Local Corporate Buyer Event and the Green Stand Awards for the top sustainable exhibition stands at Meetings Africa.

Association DayAssociation executives from across the continent will converge on Meetings Africa to participate. Designed for

executives to gain insight into the latest trends, network with industry peers, and form new relationships, the programme is presented in conjunction with the ICCA Africa Chapter.

The African Society for Association Executives (AfSAE) will hold its first AGM at Meetings Africa 2016. Established at last year’s event, AfSAE will use the trade show to enable the local business-event industry and associations to interact, creating a business development and education platform for the industry.

IMEX-MPI-MCI Future Leader Forum AfricaWe’ve seen some incredibly talented youth join these sessions, and this year will be no exception. Top final year students studying meetings and conventions, tourism or hospitality at tertiary institutions from the Tourism Educators of South Africa will once again compete for the International University Challenge. Although a closed session, these are future leaders we should definitely be watching out for.

Meetings Africa is back on 22 to 24 February 2016, showcasing Africa’s diverse offerings; the premier event for associations and industry professionals to network and do business.

MEETINGS AFRICA 2016

Opening Ceremony © Reg Caldecott


AIPC Africa SummitThe International Association of Convention Centres (AIPC) represents a global network of over 175 leading convention centres in 57 countries with the active involvement of over 900 management-level professionals. With this much clout, the AIPC’s second annual summit is much-anticipated, and will address topics that are of particular relevance to our rapidly developing region. The programme features a number of interactions with other elements of the Meetings Africa programme to encourage further exchanges. The morning will see Rod Cameron, Executive Director of the AIPC, present a talk called Africa in Context: Global Industry Trends, Performance and Prospects, while a panel of local CEOs will talk Perceived Challenges and Solutions from South Africa’s Major Convention Centres. Paul Flackett, MD of the IMEX Group will present Trade Shows: Role and Relevance, while another panel discussion will close the summit.

Business Events Associations Joint Conference The industry has realised the importance of Advancing Africa Together, and as such, a full-day workshop will bring together top international and local speakers offering exciting new glimpses at their areas of expertise. This is the second year business-events associations have joined forces to collaborate on this programme, with EXSA, EGF, IFEA Africa and SAACI arranging this year’s programme. The theme for 2016 is Inspiring an Industry, and will cover topics like the importance of delivering a ‘wow’ site inspection and using your branding correctly.

IAPCO Bespoke SeminarAimed at professional conference organisers, convention bureaux, convention centres and large conference hotels, IAPCO’s seminar will focus on current dilemmas, from bidding and getting true value from site inspections, to

digital marketing and sponsorship. The programme will also cover the face of the meetings industry today, as well as content development, and strategic marketing. Jan Tonkin, MD at The Conference Company, Alain Pittet, MD at Congrex Switzerland and Deborah Sexton, CEO of PCMA will speak.

Opening Ceremony and Gala DinnerThe fanfare at the Meetings Africa opening ceremony will no doubt return for another year. In addition to opening the trade floor at 8am on 23 February, the ceremony also includes a live Morning Live broadcast with a keynote address by Minister of Tourism Derek Hanekom – as well as the symbolic ringing of the bell. Following the opening of the exhibition hall, Hanekom will go on the traditional Minister’s Walkabout, where media are provided with photo opportunities with key stakeholders and exhibitors.

The gala dinner is also an exciting part of the show, bringing together exhibitors, international and local hosted buyers, and many others. Ideal for networking and celebrating a successful first exhibition day, you can expect to enjoy delicious culinary dishes, first-class entertainment, and of course, delightful company.

The AIPC’s second annual summit is much-anticipated, and will address topics that are of particular relevance to our rapidly developing region.

Morning Live © Reg Caldecott


Meetings Africa has become more and more focused on bringing value to delegates who attend the show. And

thanks to the global recognition the continent is getting as the market place of the future, Meetings Africa is perfectly positioned to showcase its diverse offerings and to help create meaningful partnerships across the MICE industry. South Africa is at the forefront of this movement to band the wider continent together, having attracted 69 955 international association professionals in 2015 - holding its position as the top convention destination in Africa and the Middle East.Many exhibitors at this year’s event are most excited about the Corporate Business to Business Speed marketing

We caught Amanda Kotze-Nhlapo, Chief Convention Bureau Officer of the SANCB, at the official launch of the trade show to find out why this event is not to be missed.

AMANDA KOTZE-NHLAPO: WE NEED EACH OTHER

Sessions. Meetings Africa has once again partnered with Unique Speaker Bureau to host local corporate buyers at the 2016 show. Other highlights include the IMEX-MPI-MCI Future Leader Forum Africa, the AIPC Africa Summit, the IAPCO Bespoke Seminar and, of course, BONDAY. Amanda Kotze-Nhlapo, Chief Convention Bureau Officer of the South Africa National Convention Bureau, says this year’s campaign is ‘Think Africa’. “We want to showcase the best products and services that Africa has to offer. This will be reflected at Meetings Africa,” she explains. “Meetings Africa gives opportunities to meet international minds without travelling out of your own country. But it’s not just about international hosted buyers, we on the continent need each other.”

South Africa has realised the potential of African associations and is focused on creating rotating events between countries on the continent. Of the 2 000 African association meetings that took place last year, only 13 were hosted in SA.

Meetings Africa is perfectly positioned to showcase its diverse offerings and to help create meaningful partnerships across the MICE industry.

The Minister’s Walkabout © Reg Caldecott


Meetings Africa has become more and more focused on bringing value to delegates who attend the show. And

thanks to the global recognition the continent is getting as the market place of the future, Meetings Africa is perfectly positioned to showcase its diverse offerings and to help create meaningful partnerships across the MICE industry. South Africa is at the forefront of this movement to band the wider continent together, having attracted 69 955 international association professionals in 2015 - holding its position as the top convention destination in Africa and the Middle East.Many exhibitors at this year’s event are most excited about the Corporate Business to Business Speed marketing

We caught Amanda Kotze-Nhlapo, Chief Convention Bureau Officer of the SANCB, at the official launch of the trade show to find out why this event is not to be missed.

AMANDA KOTZE-NHLAPO: WE NEED EACH OTHER

Sessions. Meetings Africa has once again partnered with Unique Speaker Bureau to host local corporate buyers at the 2016 show. Other highlights include the IMEX-MPI-MCI Future Leader Forum Africa, the AIPC Africa Summit, the IAPCO Bespoke Seminar and, of course, BONDAY. Amanda Kotze-Nhlapo, Chief Convention Bureau Officer of the South Africa National Convention Bureau, says this year’s campaign is ‘Think Africa’. “We want to showcase the best products and services that Africa has to offer. This will be reflected at Meetings Africa,” she explains. “Meetings Africa gives opportunities to meet international minds without travelling out of your own country. But it’s not just about international hosted buyers, we on the continent need each other.”

South Africa has realised the potential of African associations and is focused on creating rotating events between countries on the continent. Of the 2 000 African association meetings that took place last year, only 13 were hosted in SA.

Meetings Africa is perfectly positioned to showcase its diverse offerings and to help create meaningful partnerships across the MICE industry.

The Minister’s Walkabout © Reg Caldecott


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Scott Langley, Marketing and Sales Manager, Durban ICCWhat they’re most looking forward to“We are looking forward to the opportunity to see our loyal clients, and for the chance to meet some new clients. The highlights we are looking forward to including the B2B Speed Marketing Sessions and the AIPC Africa Summit.”

Why this is an important event for Durban ICC“The show is the best showcase of the excellent business-events products that South Africa and the rest of the continent have to offer. The show seems to be growing from strength to strength each year and always offer great leads for the Durban ICC.”

What can we expect from Durban ICC“The Durban ICC has developed a number of innovative packages for our various target markets, which we will be launching at the show!”

Robyn D’Alessandro, National Marketing Manager, Gearhouse GroupWhat they’re most looking forward to“Meetings Africa is always a great opportunity for the Gearhouse Group to connect with the International Hosted Buyers and Local Corporates, as well as many of our clients who are also participants. As INHOUSE Venue Technical Management, one of the Gearhouse Group companies, caters specifically for small to medium sized events within venues; Meetings Africa is a good platform to connect with the venues that we are already servicing as well.

“I am particularly excited to participate in the Corporate B2B Speed Marketing Session this year. We did something similar last year and it was good for us to have that intensive interaction organised on our behalf. I am hoping that the contacts made this year will be useful ones for us.”

With Meetings Africa just around the corner, we caught up with some of the exhibitors to find out what they’re offering, why Meetings Africa is important for them, and what their expectations are for the show.

EXHIBITORS AT MEETINGS AFRICA

Aquila Private Game Reserve is one of the companies that will be exhibiting and networking at this year’s Meetings Africa. © Aquila Private Game Reserve


Why this is an important event for Gearhouse Group“This event focuses us on the corporate and associations business-events market; we cover many different sectors but these are unique in that they are planning their events so far out. As a supplier, we are generally engaged only at the end of the line, but this exhibition facilitates an early client/supplier interface and we get the opportunity to give technical input from the outset, which can positively impact both the outcome and the budgets.

“Whilst most of the Association or Meetings Planners know exactly what they want to achieve; it’s up to us to advise them on the latest technical capabilities to help them achieve their outcomes in the most effi cient and economical way.”

Adriaan Liebetrau, CEO, SAACIOn SAACI’s focus at Meetings Africa 2016“This year SAACI and Meetings Africa partner associations such as EXSA, SITE and the EGF collaborated to bring you an exciting joint Business Events Associations Conference on Monday, 22 February at BONDAY. The programme’s theme is around inspiring an industry, with topics geared to help our industry prepare for a different trading year. We have been able to secure two local speakers and six international speakers traveling to South Africa from Uruguay, the United States of America, Austria, the United Kingdom and Norway. This conference is not to be missed, pre-registration is open on the Meetings Africa website.”

Jaco Du Plooy, Sales, Marketing and Revenue Manager, NH The Lord Charles HotelWhat they’re most looking forward to“We had a tremendously successful Meetings Africa last year. It was an exciting year for us, as we had just started our renovation programme. Now, with the renovations complete, we look forward to sharing the results with our clients and buyers. We are so proud of our brand new hotel and we can’t wait to share this with the world.”

Why this is an important event for NH Hotel Group“We have been attending Meetings Africa since its inception and we will continue to support the show in future. We feel that as one of the premier conference destinations in the Western Cape and indeed in SA, that Meetings Africa is the perfect platform for us to showcase our product and meet existing and potential clients. We see real ROI every year we attend the show.”

Things you should know before Meetings Africa“We have just completed an extensive renovation of the hotel. The refurbishment project, which unfolds in phases, focuses largely on the lobby area and conference centre of the hotel, but also included upgrades to 100 guest rooms. These include new, super comfortable beds and the installation of state-of-the-art, 42-inch smart televisions in all rooms to name but a few. To complement the new look rooms, the en-suite bathrooms also received a makeover.”

Aquila Private Game Reserve is looking forward to their visit to Meetings Africa this February. © Aquila Private Game Reserve

NH The Lord Charles will be exhibiting their latest offerings at Meetings Africa 2016. © NH The Lord Charles


Robin Mcleod, Manager: Group Marketing, Dragonfly AfricaWhy this is an important event for Dragonfly Africa Group“As one of Southern and East Africa’s leading destination management companies, we are fully supportive of the South Africa National Convention Bureau’s efforts in promoting our destination to the international MICE arena. This is one of the main reasons we attend Meetings Africa on a yearly basis. We are also fi rm believers that it is a case of ‘seeing is selling’, i.e. we need to physically get the international buyers to our destination, so by the time they return home they become life-long ambassadors of our country.”

Chelsea Pharo, Domestic and International Sales, Aquila SafariWhat they’re most looking forward to“We are looking forward to meeting new buyers and PCOs, to penetrate the local and international corporate market, to build on existing relationships and look for new opportunities. We are excited to attend the Corporate B2B Speed Marketing Session that will be held on Tuesday, the 23rd.

Why this is an importantevent for Aquila Safari“This is one of the few platforms where Aquila gets to work directly with the buyers, and has the opportunity to update and inform them about our products latest development plans. The business leads that we have received on this platform have been lucrative.”

What can we expect from Aquila Safari“Aquila has had the blessing of four baby Rhinos born in less than two months,

we have also added a new conference centre, star gazing and wine tasting as value adds. We are looking forward to meeting with clients and giving them all this updated information.”

Justin Hawes, Managing Director, Scan DisplayWhat he’s most looking forward to“I am looking forward to the Business Events Associations Joint Conference, taking place on 23 February. The Conference has been organised by EXSA, EGF, IFEA Africa, SAACI and SITE and includes a full-day programme covering topics like ‘how to conduct a great site inspection’ and ‘how to use branding correctly’. The Gala dinner has always been a highlight of Meetings Africa. With exceptional entertainment and food, one is guaranteed of a wonderful evening.”

Why this is an important event for Scan Display“Synergy Business Events and Scan Display have jointly exhibited at Meetings Africa for over 10 years. We have found Meetings Africa to be an excellent source of leads. Although the show doesn’t have a big footprint, over the years the quality of leads has been solid. Last year we developed a partnership with the South Africa Development Community (SADC), which paid for our stand.”

Guido Ceruti, CFO, Pure Grit Project and Exhibitions ManagementWhat they’re most looking forward to“Being an applicant. As the exhibition and event organiser of shows, Indaba Travel and Tourism Exhibition on behalf of South African Tourism, we are not used to being the applicant in an exhibition. On a more serious note, the one-on-one meetings with potential and existing clients will be benefi cial. It is very important to continually seek new opportunities and maintain existing relationships.”

Why this is an important event for Pure Grit“As our fi rst Meetings Africa, we are looking to fast track an increase in sales, by networking and creating Pure Grit brand awareness. We are expanding our current business in South Africa and in greater Africa through our Tanzanian offi ce.”

What can we expect from Pure Grit“Pure Grit is always looking at expanding, with three new exhibitions planned for 2016/2017. We are not in the business of copying existing functioning exhibitions and are looking forward to ‘shaking’ the market up.”

We are looking forward to meeting new buyers and PCOs, to penetrate the local and international corporate market, to build on existing relationships and look for new opportunities.


Meetings Africa, the premier business-events trade show hosted annually by South African Tourism, was officially

launched to the press on 28 January this year. The show has attracted the best minds in the global business-events industry for its eleventh edition. With a bevy of global business events experts and top-calibre international speakers ready to share valuable insights into global best practises and trends, Meetings Africa 2016 is gearing up for its most prestigious edition yet and is set to be of immense value to all attendees and to the overall growth of this tourism sector.

“The business-events industry is a great driver of economic development and South Africa’s business-events strategy is focused on building and accelerating its knowledge. South Africa is leading from the front in continental collaboration and partnerships to grow our own industry and contribute towards growing continental capacity and ultimately spearhead profound transformation in Africa,” says Acting CEO at South African Tourism, Sthembiso Dlamini.

A new and exciting element at this year’s Meetings Africa is the addition of

the European Cities Market (ECM) Summer School scheduled to take place just ahead of Meetings Africa from the 19th to the 21st of February. Keenly anticipated, this will be the first time that this initiative happens in South Africa. It will cover topics and subjects aimed at improving South Africa’s global competitiveness and will showcase the most up-to-date trends in the meetings industry. Speakers include: • Jonathan Cohen, Owner of the

destination marketing specialist company Azimuth Marketing Communications in the United Kingdom(UK)

• Barbara Jamison, Head of Business Development at the London Convention Bureau

• Mark Spivey, Director of International Sales at Maritim Hotels in the UK

• Anja Loetscher, Director of the Geneva Convention Bureau in Switzerland

• Anne Wallin Rodven, Convention Director of Oslo Promotion – Visitors and Convention Bureau in Norway

• Italy’s Pier Paolo Mariotti, Meeting Manager at EURAC Research and managing director of the EURAC and TIS Convention Centre

“With knowledge economy and innovation top on the agenda, Meetings Africa 2016 also boasts a high number of international and regional buyers under one roof. We are very thrilled by this. By learning from our global partners, we can gain great insights into the structure and functioning of our industry, and advance the global competitiveness of the Africa continent as a whole,” says Amanda Kotze-Nhlapo, Chief Convention Bureau Officer at the SANCB.

On Sunday, 21 February, the African Society of Association Executives (AfSAE) will officially open its Johannesburg office in a ribbon-cutting ceremony with hosted buyers and stakeholders. This is one of the many ground-breaking and innovative developments at this year’s show because through this association, South Africa will be able to encourage meetings to be held and rotated across the continent.

The first official day of the actual trade show (22 February) also known as BONDAY (Business Opportunities Networking Day) will be held and features a variety of global, regional and local speakers imparting knowledge on an array of topics affecting the business-events industry. BONDAY is designed to equip the industry, providing educational sessions for them to learn news trends and therefore further their business.

Meetings Africa 2016 has attracted over 600 international, local and regional buyers looking for venues to host everything from high-level exhibitions and conferences to small corporate meetings.

Meetings Africa’s business-events strategy is focused on building and accelerating South Africa’s knowledge economy.

MEETINGS AFRICA 2016 TO FOCUS ON THE KNOWLEDGE ECONOMY AND INNOVATION

The business-events industry is a great driver of economic development and South Africa’s business-events strategy is focused on building and accelerating its knowledge.


Meetings Africa, the premier business-events trade show hosted annually by South African Tourism, was officially

launched to the press on 28 January this year. The show has attracted the best minds in the global business-events industry for its eleventh edition. With a bevy of global business events experts and top-calibre international speakers ready to share valuable insights into global best practises and trends, Meetings Africa 2016 is gearing up for its most prestigious edition yet and is set to be of immense value to all attendees and to the overall growth of this tourism sector.

“The business-events industry is a great driver of economic development and South Africa’s business-events strategy is focused on building and accelerating its knowledge. South Africa is leading from the front in continental collaboration and partnerships to grow our own industry and contribute towards growing continental capacity and ultimately spearhead profound transformation in Africa,” says Acting CEO at South African Tourism, Sthembiso Dlamini.

A new and exciting element at this year’s Meetings Africa is the addition of

the European Cities Market (ECM) Summer School scheduled to take place just ahead of Meetings Africa from the 19th to the 21st of February. Keenly anticipated, this will be the first time that this initiative happens in South Africa. It will cover topics and subjects aimed at improving South Africa’s global competitiveness and will showcase the most up-to-date trends in the meetings industry. Speakers include: • Jonathan Cohen, Owner of the

destination marketing specialist company Azimuth Marketing Communications in the United Kingdom(UK)

• Barbara Jamison, Head of Business Development at the London Convention Bureau

• Mark Spivey, Director of International Sales at Maritim Hotels in the UK

• Anja Loetscher, Director of the Geneva Convention Bureau in Switzerland

• Anne Wallin Rodven, Convention Director of Oslo Promotion – Visitors and Convention Bureau in Norway

• Italy’s Pier Paolo Mariotti, Meeting Manager at EURAC Research and managing director of the EURAC and TIS Convention Centre

“With knowledge economy and innovation top on the agenda, Meetings Africa 2016 also boasts a high number of international and regional buyers under one roof. We are very thrilled by this. By learning from our global partners, we can gain great insights into the structure and functioning of our industry, and advance the global competitiveness of the Africa continent as a whole,” says Amanda Kotze-Nhlapo, Chief Convention Bureau Officer at the SANCB.

On Sunday, 21 February, the African Society of Association Executives (AfSAE) will officially open its Johannesburg office in a ribbon-cutting ceremony with hosted buyers and stakeholders. This is one of the many ground-breaking and innovative developments at this year’s show because through this association, South Africa will be able to encourage meetings to be held and rotated across the continent.

The first official day of the actual trade show (22 February) also known as BONDAY (Business Opportunities Networking Day) will be held and features a variety of global, regional and local speakers imparting knowledge on an array of topics affecting the business-events industry. BONDAY is designed to equip the industry, providing educational sessions for them to learn news trends and therefore further their business.

Meetings Africa 2016 has attracted over 600 international, local and regional buyers looking for venues to host everything from high-level exhibitions and conferences to small corporate meetings.

Meetings Africa’s business-events strategy is focused on building and accelerating South Africa’s knowledge economy.

MEETINGS AFRICA 2016 TO FOCUS ON THE KNOWLEDGE ECONOMY AND INNOVATION

The business-events industry is a great driver of economic development and South Africa’s business-events strategy is focused on building and accelerating its knowledge.


Sandton Convention Centre has hosted Meetings Africa since its inception eleven years ago, and has witnessed first-hand how this trade

show has helped Africa’s steady climb in the world rankings as the preferred business destination. SCC has seen a variety of high-profile events through its doors in 2015, including the recent African Union Summit.

“Meetings Africa is the best platform to demonstrate that business tourism in South Africa is coming of age because of the increased number of international hosted buyers,” Mati Nyazema, Executive Director at SCC, explains. “In the recent years, the business-events industry has scaled new heights in terms of the type of volume of events hosted. The industry has also matured rapidly in its international business events.”

Dr Nyazema will be participating in the AIPC Africa Summit’s CEO Panel at Meetings Africa along with Julie-May Ellingson of the CTICC and Lindiwe Rakharebe of Durban ICC. This is the second year that the AIPC Africa Summit will be held, this time with

the theme of The Big Picture: Africa in Context with Global Industry Trends and Conditions. The CEO panel will strive to establish the context for AIPC Summit discussions by combining a global overview of key industry issues, challenges and opportunities in the international sphere. Dr Nyazema will present Our Industry’s Top Market Challenges and New Opportunities for Business Growth.

The convention centre’s 2016 calendar is already filled with influential summits, exhibitions and conferences, including the two-week CITES CoP17 event for the 181 CITES signatory countries, and the inaugural Arnold Classic SA Sport Festival where legendary bodybuilder, actor and politician Arnold Schwarzenegger is set to attend. A wide range of consumer edutainment and entertainment events, as well as international and local public sector, trade and lifestyle events are also on the calendar.

Sandton Convention Centre is the conferencing flagship of the Tsogo Sun group, who will be present at Meetings

Africa showcasing their products and engaging with clients. The centre has over 22 000m² of state-of-the-art meeting, exhibition and special event space, with some of the most advanced exhibition and conferencing technology in the world. Its central position with easy access to the international airport, Gautrain rapid rail, Sandton CBD and major hotels makes it a firm favourite for event planners. Tsogo Sun is the leading hotels, gaming, and entertainment company in the country, encompassing 14 casinos and over 90 hotels across South Africa, Africa and the Seychelles.

The Sandton Convention Centre will once again host Meetings Africa as a pivotal player in building South Africa’s business-tourism profile.

SANDTON CONVENTION CENTRE GEARS UP FOR MEETINGS AFRICA

Meetings Africa is the best platform to demonstrate that business tourism in South Africa is coming of age.

Sandton Registration © SCC

Stellenbosch is the second-oldest town in SA with magnificent mountain ranges, scenic drives and wine tasting. With two neighbouring golf courses, this 180-bedroom hotel offers guests the best of the Winelands and the largest conferencing venues in Stellenbosch,accommodating up to 800 in eight venues alternatively. Day conferencing packages, event equipment and WiFi are readily available.

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CRYSTAL EVENTS

HOW WE WORK: 1. Instruct our colleagues in your country to make contact with you. 2. Collect your display material from your door. 3. Import your product into South Africa. 4. Take care of necessary SA customs procedures. 5. Store your products until the build-up date of the event. 6. Deliver your products to your booth. 7. Store the empty packages. 8. Visit you and discuss the outward movement of your products from the event. 9. Re-export your products back to its origin or send it onto another event.

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EXHIBITION FREIGHTING G.S.M

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SETBUILD

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For a truly impactful event that leaves everyone inspired, committed and motivated, call USB experts today on

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USB speakers have solid speaker & MC credentials, we rely on repeat business and deliver excellence constantly.

Unique Speaker Bureau represent Premier Speakers with exceptional credentialsUnique Speaker Bureau (USB) is the agent of choice when it comes to sourcing high level professionals for conferences and corporate events. Unique Speaker Bureau’s team of keynote speakers, MCs and program directors (facilitators) are carefully chosen for their presentation content, professionalism, expertise, experience, depth and collaboration.

For a truly impactful event that leaves everyone inspired, committed and motivated, call USB experts today on

+27 11 465 4410Alternatively, contact:

[email protected] I +27 83 268 6057 www.uniquespeakerbureau.com

USB speakers have solid speaker & MC credentials, we rely on repeat business and deliver excellence constantly.

USB is a premier speaker management company comprising top national and international speakers. We workpro-actively with clients and speakers and have assisted event planners with thousands of events over the past five years, including hosting the Speakers Corner at leading business-related expos and indabas around South Africa. www.uniquespeakerbureau.com Twitter: USB Twitter I Linked In: USB Linked In I Facebook: Unique Speaker Bureau

t. +27 11 465 4410c. +27 83 268 6057 e. [email protected]

USB

Urbantonic is one of Cape Town largest and most successful Event Logistics companies focusing on servicing the Events, Incentive, Exhibition and Film industries. Our services include the following:• Full Event Management• Event Rental • Furniture Rental • Mobile Event Bars• Event Décor and styling• Event StaffingWe have a team of 50 working to deliver quality service for our clients. We don’t do boring, we don’t do bland.

t. +27 21 713 4439e. [email protected]

URBANTONIC

oaxa

KEY BENEFITS OF MEMBERSHIP:● Preferential rates from suppliers● Mediation facility for exhibitors and organizers● SARS VAT Ruling● Show audits by accredited body ● Negotiation with Government bodies● Exhibitor Training and workshops● Industry Research studies and surveys● Industry promotion

WWW.AAXO.CO.ZA +27 (0)11 549 [email protected]

AN ASSOCIATION OF ORGANISERS DRIVEN

BY ORGANISERS

For membership inquiries: [email protected]

CONVENTION PLANNING SUPPORT

SOUTH AFRICA NATIONAL CONVENTION BUREAU in partnership with the

Part 3 of 6

© C

ourtesy of Durban IC

C

SOUTH AFRICA NATIONAL CONVENTION BUREAU in partnership with the Part 3 of 6

Convention Planning Support

The South Africa National Convention

Bureau (the SANCB) is perfectly positioned

to assist with planning a congress,

meeting, expo or convention in South

Africa. Their team has effective working

relationships with an extensive database

of local service providers. The SANCB

can also facilitate collateral materials,

government liaison and advice on

destination and local issues.

South Africa has an outstanding track

record in hosting international business

events, with highlights including:

• COP17

• 5th BRICS Summit

• World Economic Forum

• UIA World Congress of Architects

• The World Congress of Paediatric

Cardiology and Cardiac Surgery

• 17th International Conference of HIV/

AIDS and STIs in Africa

Key services during the Convention Planning stage

Sourcing VenuesSouth Africa has myriad business-event

venues that cater for events of any size.

The SANCB understands that no two

events are the same, therefore they will

tailor-make a list of recommended venues

according to the specific needs of the

event. Whether it’s a conference for

2 000 in one of South Africa’s Centres of

Excellence, or a convention for 15 000

in the heart of Cape Town, the SANCB

will find the perfect venue. Durban

International Convention Centre has

been named the best conference centre

in Africa more than 10 times, the Cape

Town International Convention Centre

is undergoing a massive expansion, and

the brand-new Century City Conference

Centre is open for business, which further

highlights the diversity of South Africa’s

venue offering.

Locating SuppliersA well-planned conference requires the

co-ordinated efforts of numerous

suppliers, such as stand designers

and builders, catering companies,

entertainment, translation services,

professional speakers, security, transport,

graphic designers, décor experts, audio-

visual experts and many other technical

suppliers. The SANCB works with City and

Provincial Convention Bureaus to propose

recommended suppliers, and facilitate

business relationships.

Compiling Cost EstimatesConferences require complex budgets that

must be adhered to strictly. The SANCB

understands the importance of these

budgets, and will propose Professional

Conference Organisers that can assist with

budget-related matters. South Africa has

dozens of excellent PCOs that are skilled

in all aspects of conference organising,

including costings and budgets.


Convention Planning Support

The South Africa National Convention

Bureau (the SANCB) is perfectly positioned

to assist with planning a congress,

meeting, expo or convention in South

Africa. Their team has effective working

relationships with an extensive database

of local service providers. The SANCB

can also facilitate collateral materials,

government liaison and advice on

destination and local issues.

South Africa has an outstanding track

record in hosting international business

events, with highlights including:

• COP17

• 5th BRICS Summit

• World Economic Forum

• UIA World Congress of Architects

• The World Congress of Paediatric

Cardiology and Cardiac Surgery

• 17th International Conference of HIV/

AIDS and STIs in Africa

Key services during the Convention Planning stage

Sourcing VenuesSouth Africa has myriad business-event

venues that cater for events of any size.

The SANCB understands that no two

events are the same, therefore they will

tailor-make a list of recommended venues

according to the specific needs of the

event. Whether it’s a conference for

2 000 in one of South Africa’s Centres of

Excellence, or a convention for 15 000

in the heart of Cape Town, the SANCB

will find the perfect venue. Durban

International Convention Centre has

been named the best conference centre

in Africa more than 10 times, the Cape

Town International Convention Centre

is undergoing a massive expansion, and

the brand-new Century City Conference

Centre is open for business, which further

highlights the diversity of South Africa’s

venue offering.

Locating SuppliersA well-planned conference requires the

co-ordinated efforts of numerous

suppliers, such as stand designers

and builders, catering companies,

entertainment, translation services,

professional speakers, security, transport,

graphic designers, décor experts, audio-

visual experts and many other technical

suppliers. The SANCB works with City and

Provincial Convention Bureaus to propose

recommended suppliers, and facilitate

business relationships.

Compiling Cost EstimatesConferences require complex budgets that

must be adhered to strictly. The SANCB

understands the importance of these

budgets, and will propose Professional

Conference Organisers that can assist with

budget-related matters. South Africa has

dozens of excellent PCOs that are skilled

in all aspects of conference organising,

including costings and budgets.

Case Study: UIA2014

The local organising committee of

the International Union of Architects

commissioned the services of the Durban

KwaZulu-Natal Convention Bureau in the

years prior to the World Congress in 2014.

Karen Eicker, UIA2014 Commissary General

explains the Convention Planning process

as follows: “A number of the Congress

suppliers were sub-contracted through

our PCO, Turners. Other suppliers that we

appointed had to go through a stringent

bidding process that involved responding

to a Request for Proposals with information

on previous relevant experience, a vision for

their role in the project, references, BBBEE

certificates and tax clearance certificates.

Short-listed candidates were

These cost estimates could include:

• Accommodation

• Catering

• Graphics

• Printing and Publishing

• Website Development

• Venue Signage

• Audio and Visual Services

• Technical Services

• Photographers

• Transport

• Publicity and Promotion

• Entertainment

Submitting and Monitoring RFPsThe SANCB and the relevant local convention

bureau will ease the planning process by

submitting requests for proposals in-house,

and carefully monitoring the progression

of each.

Co-ordinating Site InspectionsSite inspections are an integral aspect of

the planning phase as they inform decision

makers on the locations, facilities and

incentive options that will work best for the

conference. The SANCB works closely with

South Africa’s myriad venues, and is ideally

positioned to facilitate the inspection of

suitable venues.

Advising on Pre- and Post-Tour OpportunitiesSouth Africa has an abundance of pre-

and post-tour opportunities. Conference

delegates will be able to see for themselves

what millions of travellers flock to see every

year on SA’s shores. From wine-tasting

along the world’s longest wine route, to

exploring Gauteng’s cultural precincts, to

visiting the country’s renowned Kruger

National Park; the SANCB can advise the

organising committee on the most rewarding

destinations and activities to consider for

their delegates.

The SANCB provides convention planning support for international conferences, including locating suppliers, recommending PCOs and facilitating site inspections.


then interviewed by a committee from the

UIA2014 Organisation Committee and rated

against a set of criteria that was drawn up

relevant to the particular tasks that would

be undertaken, in order to ensure that

candidates were being evaluated fairly and

in accordance with the same criteria.

Karen and her team approached the

SANCB one year before the Congress,

and they came on board in early 2014

with much-needed financial support,

and assisted with reaching the media in

the run up to the conference. “Through

our conference organisers, Turners

Conferencing, we also began having regular

meetings with Durban Tourism and the

Durban KZN Convention Bureau at the

Durban ICC in the year leading up to the

Congress, around stakeholder involvement

and support from a communications and

logistics point of view.” said Karen.

“I would strongly recommend that any organisation wanting to bid for an event of this nature approaches the SANCB when the bid process is initiated in order to derive the maximum benefit from the SANCB’s expertise and network of stakeholders and affiliates.”

“Durban was excited to host this significant architectural event, hosted for the first time in Sub-Saharan Africa. We welcomed the dialogue around the creation of human settlements - in particular humane cities - and showcased the initiatives our City has undertaken.” – Naledi Moyo, Deputy City Manager eThekwini Municipality

Hassan Asmal, President of the UIA2014

Congress, said “Formal contact with the

SANCB took place about a year before

the Congress itself. We found the input

and additional organisational assistance

of the SANCB invaluable. Being their

core function, the SANCB has extensive

experience relating to conference

organising especially when it comes to

protocol and regulatory issues as well as

other congress-related activities. Working

with them from an early stage enables

one to set the base requirements quickly.

This then allows the team to explore ways

of adding to these base requirements in

order to make the event more than just a

normal congress. One that should make

for a better congress as well as a more

enlightening experience of the host city as

well as the country.”

“The SANCB and Durban KZN

Convention Bureau’s involvement was

invaluable in terms of stakeholder

coordination and advice around logistics,

marketing and communications. I would

strongly recommend that any organisation

wanting to bid for an event of this nature

approaches the SANCB when the bid

process is initiated in order to derive

the maximum benefit from the SANCB’s

expertise and network of stakeholders and

affiliates.” Karen Eicker concluded.

For destination expertise and convention planning support, contact the South Africa National Convention Bureau.T: +27 (0)11 895 3000 E: [email protected] W: www.businessevents.southafrica.net

SANCB Support Services

DELEGATE / CONSUMER FOCUSED

SANCB SUPPORT SERVICES

BIDDING SUPPORT• Bid Strategy• Bid Document• Lobbying• Bid Promotion• Bid Presentations

SITE INSPECTION SUPPORT• Bidding Site

inspection• Convention

Planning Site Inspections

CONVENTION PLANNING SUPPORT• Planning support• Venue and supplier

recommendations Final decision with client

DELEGATE BOOSTING SUPPORT• Marketing support

to promote the SA conference

• Delegate attendance promotion

ON SITE SERVICES• Support toward

on site elements of the event

ORGANISER / KEY DECISION MAKER FOCUSED

For destination expertise and convention planning support, contact the South Africa National Convention Bureau.T: +27 (0)11 895 3000 E: [email protected] W: www.businessevents.southafrica.net

SANCB Support Services

DELEGATE / CONSUMER FOCUSED

SANCB SUPPORT SERVICES

BIDDING SUPPORT• Bid Strategy• Bid Document• Lobbying• Bid Promotion• Bid Presentations

SITE INSPECTION SUPPORT• Bidding Site

inspection• Convention

Planning Site Inspections

CONVENTION PLANNING SUPPORT• Planning support• Venue and supplier

recommendations Final decision with client

DELEGATE BOOSTING SUPPORT• Marketing support

to promote the SA conference

• Delegate attendance promotion

ON SITE SERVICES• Support toward

on site elements of the event

ORGANISER / KEY DECISION MAKER FOCUSED

www.theevent.co.za 29TECH TALK

A picture says a thousand words, or so the old adage goes. These days, everyone can agree that in our visual world, they can

often say so much more than a thousand, and can become the catalyst for global conversations. And that’s why when you’re planning an event with a photo booth you should consider all your options – especially the cool ones. Here’s a rundown of the crazy awesome tech innovations in this realm.

1. Go the GIF RouteThis is a fun one, especially for the younger generation who blogs and reblogs everything…and I do mean everything. I’m one of those suckers and I would defi nitely reblog a GIF that was taken at a photo booth. These nifty little ‘video’ clips loop a few of the images from the booth to create a sort of flip book that’s just a few seconds long – and oh so adorable. It’s also great for spreading your social media footprint far and wide.

2. Personalise and CustomiseIf you’re opting for a photo booth, you may as well go the whole hog and personalise it with a custom wrap. This can be your company logo, an engagement picture, a monogram or even a pattern that fi ts with your décor. Once that’s done, all that’s left is setting up the booth with a special hashtag so you can programme the images to upload to Instagram and Facebook for everyone to enjoy.

3. Take Themes to a New LevelThe Exhibitor recently shared a fascinating story of how Czarnowski Display Services Inc. gave attendees of the Healthcare Convention & Exhibitors Association an alternate view through its Unlearn & Reframe Theme. After sharing their

passions outside of work, each participant was invited to peruse a catalogue of stock art through a monitor and choose an image representative of those passions. Using a special camera setting, these eye-catching images of forest scenes, underwater landscapes and cityscapes were superimposed on the attendee’s silhouette, creating a striking, unforgettable experience.

4. Opt for 3DYes, that’s a real thing. In late 2012 Fast Co Design announced the world’s fi rst 3D photobooth that creates a tiny version of you. Fast-forward four years and companies offering these services have popped up everywhere. From 3DMe Photobooth to Shapify to MiniMe3D, this crazy tech is ready to turn everyone into action fi gures. Some of the scanners you can literally walk into, while The Hyperpod, for instance, is purposely engineered to capture 1.5 million-pixel, full-body scans in less than one minute. “I can defi nitely imagine the Hyperpod replacing local photo booths in the near future,” Tyler Koslow said in 3D Printing Industry in November last year, “and as our 3D scanning and printing capabilities become more accessible to the public and also more advanced in general, we may soon have a Hyperpod 3D Photo Booth at our nearest shopping mall.”

It’s pretty hard to believe that there could be innovations in photo booths, but because tech develops so rapidly, your event memories can be treasured even more, says Kim Muller.

PHOTO BOOTH TECHNOLOGY

These eye-catching images of forest scenes, underwater landscapes and cityscapes were superimposed on the attendee’s silhouette.

Unlearn & Reframe at the the Healthcare Convention & Exhibitors Association © Czarnowski Display Services Inc.

© Seaside Music Theatre

© Digital Photo Innovations


AN A-Z GUIDE TO PLANNING YOUR ASSOCIATION CONFERENCE Follow this step-by-step guide and make your conference shine. Compiled with wisdom from local experts, Kim Muller brings you part two in a two-part series.

From the tiniest corporate meeting to the largest trade exhibition, an event organiser’s reputation is always on the line. As the old adage goes, ‘you’re only as good as your last job’. This rings true for many facets of the working world. Here are some of the best practices we should always remember to incorporate when planning an association conference, trade exhibition or business event.

In our budget-driven economic climate, one of the most important things an association event planner can use to their advantage is the art of negotiation. According to About Money, negotiation is a “critical factor in increasing ROI”, plus it allows you to make

the most of your clients’ budgets. If you’re not a strong negotiator, it helps knowing beforehand what your ‘nice-to-have’ items are versus your must-haves – as well as what your budget allows. During the negotiations, minimize conflict to achieve

a win-win outcome, but be sure not to let anyone rush you into making decisions. And effective negotiation strategy has clear communication at its core, and most event planners, venue owners and suppliers stress the significance of this point.

Negotiation

Over the last few years, one of the growing trends that have surfaced are companies, venues and suppliers who offer turnkey solutions. Trust is imperative when choosing who will join your team. Says Angela Lorimer, Commercial Manager at Spier Wine Farm:

“To plan any successful conference you need a Conference Hotel that you can trust and a co-ordinator that is a One-Stop-Shop! Both are to be found at Spier! We pride ourselves in offering a professional service where any organiser may rest assured that

a sustainable conference will be organised through offering a Conscious Conferencing experience. Our BBBEE status, and the fact that we recycle 100% of our water and 98% of our waste, all assist with our superior and friendly service,” she explains.

O One-Stop-Shop


AN A-Z GUIDE TO PLANNING YOUR ASSOCIATION CONFERENCE Follow this step-by-step guide and make your conference shine. Compiled with wisdom from local experts, Kim Muller brings you part two in a two-part series.

From the tiniest corporate meeting to the largest trade exhibition, an event organiser’s reputation is always on the line. As the old adage goes, ‘you’re only as good as your last job’. This rings true for many facets of the working world. Here are some of the best practices we should always remember to incorporate when planning an association conference, trade exhibition or business event.

In our budget-driven economic climate, one of the most important things an association event planner can use to their advantage is the art of negotiation. According to About Money, negotiation is a “critical factor in increasing ROI”, plus it allows you to make

the most of your clients’ budgets. If you’re not a strong negotiator, it helps knowing beforehand what your ‘nice-to-have’ items are versus your must-haves – as well as what your budget allows. During the negotiations, minimize conflict to achieve

a win-win outcome, but be sure not to let anyone rush you into making decisions. And effective negotiation strategy has clear communication at its core, and most event planners, venue owners and suppliers stress the significance of this point.

Negotiation

Over the last few years, one of the growing trends that have surfaced are companies, venues and suppliers who offer turnkey solutions. Trust is imperative when choosing who will join your team. Says Angela Lorimer, Commercial Manager at Spier Wine Farm:

“To plan any successful conference you need a Conference Hotel that you can trust and a co-ordinator that is a One-Stop-Shop! Both are to be found at Spier! We pride ourselves in offering a professional service where any organiser may rest assured that

a sustainable conference will be organised through offering a Conscious Conferencing experience. Our BBBEE status, and the fact that we recycle 100% of our water and 98% of our waste, all assist with our superior and friendly service,” she explains.

O One-Stop-Shop


Once you know you can trust the people you’re working with, it’s then time to build functional business relationships with them. When partnering with people, balance is incredibly important in holding these relationships together. “Strike an

even balance between the wants of the client and the deliverables of the providers, knowing that future relationships are based on how you execute this point with either side of the coin,” Miguel Bennetto-Dos Santos, Director of Group Sales

at The Westin Cape Town, says. Spier’s Lorimer agrees with his sentiments. “Ensure that you have a great working relationship with your suppliers so that flexibility may be maximised,” she advises.

It goes without saying these days that qualifications are imperative to any professional conference organiser’s portfolio. Not only does education in the sector further your knowledge of

the constantly changing climate in this industry, but it also stands you in good stead to acquire association event jobs. Institutions like the MICE Academy offer great courses for event

professionals, while tertiary degrees abound at universities. Associations like AAXO, SAACI and EXSA also offer regular workshops, training and insights, with the SAACI Academy launching recently.

Partnerships

Qualifications

As we create more space in our lives for the digital element of conferencing, registration has become an ever-evolving aspect of the job. Not only is it imperative to have both online and paper registration options and before and during the event for possible walk-ins, but the why behind your conference persuading folks to attend has also become

an essential part of the process. Nonnie Kubeka, GM at Gauteng Tourism Authority, recently shared the rigorous activation process called delegate boosting. “People come from all over the world to watch tennis at Wimbledon or to see the World Cup. Remember people have not planned to come to this event.” She gave SAACI’s annual

conference as an example: “The way SAACI posted on Facebook, you felt like, ‘Oh, if I’m not at this particular conference, I’m going to miss out!’” Boosting registrations can also be done through intensive marketing campaigns through media interest, or in many other ways. And, as the next point illustrates, it’s always good to get your attendance up early!

‘The early bird gets the worm’ has never been truer than in the conferencing world. Starting your planning early is always useful, and leaves room for possible last-minute issues to be

ironed out with more gusto before the event begins. Here are Scan Display’s Justin Hawes’ top planning tips:• Ensure that you appoint

an experienced PCO

• Ensure experienced contractors are involved from the beginning of the project right through to its execution

• Start early – the earlier one starts planning the conference, the better

Registration

Start Early


As the official association conference planner, your job is to know all and be all to everyone around you. Being ubiquitous

in this industry comes down to having a very ordered state of mind – but it helps when you always have a notebook and

phone handy. Knowing your checklist and contractors’ demands are also useful, as is your friendly demeanour in a sticky situation.

Most conference organisers and associations would argue that adding value is one of the most important elements of hosting a successful event. And value can be added on almost every level of planning, from the sustainable to the partnerships, and the post-event hype. Miguel Bennetto-Dos Santos, Director of Group of Sales at The Westin, stresses the importance of adding value from the ground up: “Partner up with service providers that share the same values as you do, after all they will be a reflection of your company.”Antoinette McInnes of Eyako Green offers her own advice for the greening side of things: “Think wisely about the sustainable and added value angle of give-aways when allocating budget. If a creative, unique, eco, locally-made bag is more expensive, then

maybe use more money for this and cut back on imported, been-there-done-that items such as pens and notepads.” She gives Microsoft as an example, where the company took a strategic decision to spend their budget on upcycled bags and cut out other things they usually gave away. “These upcycled billboard bags were trending on social media very shortly after they were handed out. This gave Microsoft far more marketing mileage than spreading their budget to include the same old same old items that are usually given away at conferences.”Visitors should always stand to benefit from attending an association event, adds Craig Newman, Head of the Johannesburg Expo Centre. “Ensure that members are aware and understand the value of attending your event,” he explains, “For example, the UFI Congress

2017 will be a platform for those who would like to launch their businesses locally, to meet with big potential partners from the international arena.” And please don’t forget that your event does not really end when you close the doors, says CSIR ICC’s Refilwe Nchebisang. “While communication with delegates is important throughout all phases of any conference with an association, post-event communication should be given special attention to ensure that delegates take value away from the conference,” she explains. “The conference does not stop with the closing session. Sharing of information post-event and follow up virtual workshops and online chats ensure that the value of the conference exceeds just a few days for delegates who are otherwise normally not connected when arriving back at their place of work.”

As times have changed so should your conference – use some different technologies so that your conference is more relevant, says SAACI CEO Adriaan Liebetrau. “Use technology

to your advantage; this includes mobile apps and audio visuals in terms of sounds and lighting to give your events a modern and innovative feel.”Many conferencing apps and tech

options are available on the market, from custom designed event apps to make engagement and interaction more fun, to social walls, voting systems, video conferencing, and much more.

Technology

Ubiquity

Value

Wisdom

“There can be as much value in the blink of an eye as in months of rational analysis.”― Malcolm GladwellThis quote speaks about being wise in your

planning decisions, but it also warns us not to ignore that feeling deep within our guts telling us how and what to do. Trusting your intuition is important, especially when

you’re stick in a situation that needs a fast solution. Gladwell’s book Blink is a wealth of information on how a tiny gut feeling can often be the right decision to make.


Described as an unreasonable fear of what is perceived to be foreign or strange, xenophobia and its associates are something we should make every effort to avoid. A great example of this unreasonable fear is the recent Ebola outbreak in West Africa last year that saw the entire continent

doing damage control in a bad PR situation. Misinformation or a lack of information is usually the root of this kind of problem, as well as a resistance to new experiences and peoples. As one of the sectors responsible for giving people often their first taste of Africa, we should be educating them.

We should be sharing our diverse and beautiful stories, we should be championing development and good relationships between neighbouring African states, and we should, of course, be accepting of all – religious, political, or simply those who are ‘different’ to our usual cup of tea.

The youth – or people under the age of 35 - working within the business events realm, are vital to the future of the sector. Much has and can be said about Generation Z, or Millennials, but here are a few recent facts that will blow your mind and make you rethink your event marketing strategies to this age group:• The Millennial generation is the biggest

in US history – even bigger than the Baby Boom, coming in at 92 million.

• Millennials are turning to a new set of services that provide access to products without the burden of ownership. Says

Jeremy Rifkin, author and economist: “25 years from now, car sharing will be the norm, and car ownership an anomaly.”

• When marketing to Millennials, a strong brand isn’t enough to lock in a sale. Social responsibility and value are also high on the list.

• When it comes to money, ‘experience’ trumps ‘things’. 78% of Millennials would choose to spend money on a desirable experience or event over buying something desirable. In fact, this is so intense that nearly 8 in 10 Millennials experience FOMO

– Fear Of Missing Out – especially since we live in a world where life experiences are broadcast across social media. 41% also struggle with information overload.

This simply shows us that we should be using our tools to more effectively engage with this market – and the subsequent Generation Z, who follow in their footsteps. For instance 72% of current high schoolers want their own businesses, and 76% hope they can turn their hobbies into careers, much in the entrepreneurial spirit of their predecessors.

Xenophobia

Youth

Zoetic

Zoetic is of Greek origins and means living, vital, and my personal favourite, animatedly existent. This is exactly what any event planner – association conference or other

– should embody. This profession requires flexibility, constant interaction with all kinds of people, creative problem solving, and a great amount of stress,

so someone who is lively, content, and tireless in their endeavours, is an ideal candidate to get the job done well (and they’ll be a pleasure to work with, too).


A hallmark of the modern lifestyle is the interest in of high-profi le sporting and entertainment events. The Fédéreation

Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) and the International Olympic Committee (IOC) are of the largest on the world stage, but live music and other sporting events have also grown exponentially. Today’s events need to cater for this voracious demand. We investigate what South Africa’s mega-event venues have to offer.

1. FNB StadiumIt is the largest venue in South Africa, with a capacity of 94 736. Previously named Soccer City, its unique design conferred it the nicknames of “Calabash” or “African Pot”. World-renowned for a number of reasons, especially the opening and closing ceremonies of the FIFA World Cup 2010, Africa’s fi rst. It hosts the Soweto derby between football giants Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates. It also hosts international rugby test clashes and big music superstars, including U2 and Lady Gaga.

2. Cape Town StadiumSituated close to the Cape Town city centre and to the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, it has a capacity of 55 000. It hosted eight matches during the FIFA World Cup and hosts a variety of soccer and rugby events, as well as international music concerts. It’s also the home stadium to local Ajax Cape Town in the Premier Soccer League (PSL). The stadium hosted 72 000 U2 fans at their concert, held in 2011.

3. Moses Mabhida StadiumOffi cially opened in November 2009, this splendid stadium gives the Durban skyline an exceptional landmark boasting its “arch of triumph”, creating activities like the SkyCar or the 550 step walk to the top of its arch. With a capacity of 56 000, it also hosted seven FIFA World Cup matches and is a premier meetings venue. Due to diversifi ed offering, it is a very well-utilised stadium.

4. Nelson Mandela Bay StadiumSituated in Port Elizabeth, it has capacity for 46 000. It has the ability to cater for events like conferences, business meetings and exhibitions as well as music festivals. Large expos such as the Food & Wine Show and the Outdoor Expo have been held here. It also hosted FIFA World Cup matches and still hosts Super Rugby games.

5. Mbombela StadiumLocated in Mpumulanga, relatively close to the Kruger National Park, the stadium was built envisioning it as a place to remind spectators that they

were in Big 5 homeland. With a capacity of 43 500 and having hosted four FIFA World Cup matches, its defi ning feature is 18 orange giraffe columns that carry the roof structure and the black-and-white zebra skin patterned seating.

6. Johannesburg Expo CentreIt is the ideal venue for trade shows, concerts and large events as it has the largest, dedicated exhibition facilities in Africa. Its central location means that it is easily accessible, is secure and has ample parking space. It has at least 80 000m² of outdoor exhibition space

MEGA EVENT VENUES

Cape Town International Convention Centre

Nelson Mandela Bay Tourism © Nelson Mandela Bay Tourism


A hallmark of the modern lifestyle is the interest in of high-profi le sporting and entertainment events. The Fédéreation

Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) and the International Olympic Committee (IOC) are of the largest on the world stage, but live music and other sporting events have also grown exponentially. Today’s events need to cater for this voracious demand. We investigate what South Africa’s mega-event venues have to offer.

1. FNB StadiumIt is the largest venue in South Africa, with a capacity of 94 736. Previously named Soccer City, its unique design conferred it the nicknames of “Calabash” or “African Pot”. World-renowned for a number of reasons, especially the opening and closing ceremonies of the FIFA World Cup 2010, Africa’s fi rst. It hosts the Soweto derby between football giants Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates. It also hosts international rugby test clashes and big music superstars, including U2 and Lady Gaga.

2. Cape Town StadiumSituated close to the Cape Town city centre and to the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, it has a capacity of 55 000. It hosted eight matches during the FIFA World Cup and hosts a variety of soccer and rugby events, as well as international music concerts. It’s also the home stadium to local Ajax Cape Town in the Premier Soccer League (PSL). The stadium hosted 72 000 U2 fans at their concert, held in 2011.

3. Moses Mabhida StadiumOffi cially opened in November 2009, this splendid stadium gives the Durban skyline an exceptional landmark boasting its “arch of triumph”, creating activities like the SkyCar or the 550 step walk to the top of its arch. With a capacity of 56 000, it also hosted seven FIFA World Cup matches and is a premier meetings venue. Due to diversifi ed offering, it is a very well-utilised stadium.

4. Nelson Mandela Bay StadiumSituated in Port Elizabeth, it has capacity for 46 000. It has the ability to cater for events like conferences, business meetings and exhibitions as well as music festivals. Large expos such as the Food & Wine Show and the Outdoor Expo have been held here. It also hosted FIFA World Cup matches and still hosts Super Rugby games.

5. Mbombela StadiumLocated in Mpumulanga, relatively close to the Kruger National Park, the stadium was built envisioning it as a place to remind spectators that they

were in Big 5 homeland. With a capacity of 43 500 and having hosted four FIFA World Cup matches, its defi ning feature is 18 orange giraffe columns that carry the roof structure and the black-and-white zebra skin patterned seating.

6. Johannesburg Expo CentreIt is the ideal venue for trade shows, concerts and large events as it has the largest, dedicated exhibition facilities in Africa. Its central location means that it is easily accessible, is secure and has ample parking space. It has at least 80 000m² of outdoor exhibition space

MEGA EVENT VENUES

Cape Town International Convention Centre

Nelson Mandela Bay Tourism © Nelson Mandela Bay Tourism


and a multi-purpose arena able to accommodate up to 20 000 delegates. Annual events include the largest consumer exhibition in the southern hemisphere, the Rand Show.

7. Ticketpro DomeWith 15 000m2 exhibition space, the Ticketpro Dome, South Africa’s largest indoor venue is home to some of South Africa’s top consumer exhibitions. It has a seated capacity of 13 000 and 19 000 in a seating standing combination. It offers a platform for local and international music and entertainment acts to play to big audiences. The lower level floor space can be adapted to cater for wide-ranging types of exhibitions. Previous artists featured were Diana Ross and Bryan Adams.

8. GrandWest Casino and Entertainment WorldGrandWest Casino and Entertainment World is able to accommodate lavish functions, exhibitions, and product launches. The Grand Arena has capacity to seat 5 000 people or 7 000 people standing. An addition to its offering is the new 2700m2 SunExhibits, with a capacity of 6 500 people. The latter

was the host of the King Tut Exhibition. The conference area is clustered with a casino and other entertainment venues and offers a robust experience.

9. Durban Exhibition Centre and Durban International Convention CentreThe Durban Exhibition Centre is situated opposite the Durban International Convention Centre. It is a multi-purpose exhibition and conference centre, with two halls offering a combined space of 9 600m2. The DICC is world-renowned, presenting different venue confi gurations due to moveable walls. When opened up to form one large venue, it can seat 5 000 delegates. Together, these venues are able to double the ICC capacity to accommodate 10 000 conference delegates. This is achieved by closing the brick-paved concourse between the two centres. It hosts concerts and shows, sports events, exhibitions, conferences and private functions.

10. Cape Town International Convention CentreSituated in the heart of Cape Town, the world-class and modern multi-purpose conference and exhibition centre has up to 10 000m2 of pristine exhibition space.

They are currently renovating and plan on unveiling in 2017, providing additional 10 000m2 of multi-purpose conference and exhibition space and 3 000m2 of formal and informal meeting space. The Cape Town International Jazz Festival is hosted there annually.

11. Gallagher EstateLocated between Pretoria and Johannesburg, it is ideally positioned to service the Gauteng hub with an ability to host secure events such as the Pan-African Parliament meetings. The safe and tranquil estate equipped with exhibition venues offering 27 000m2 of exhibition space, is able to accommodate 7 000 convention delegates. There are fi ve large exhibition halls for exhibitions, concerts and trade shows, as well as other smaller areas.

12. Sun City SuperbowlWith a capacity of 6 000 delegates, the Superbowl is the largest conference and entertainment area at Sun City. It is renowned for hosting superstar performances, major international sporting events and exhibitions.

13. Royal Bafokeng StadiumOpened in 1999, it is the only community-owned football stadium in South Africa and has a capacity of 42 000. Six FIFA World Cup matches were played there. It serves as the home ground for the Premier Soccer League (PSL) team, the Platinum Stars. The stadium also regularly hosts rugby matches while the rugby team, the Leopards, utilise the stadium for big matches.

With 15 000m2 exhibition space, the Ticketpro Dome, South Africa’s largest indoor venue is home to some of South Africa’s top consumer exhibitions. It has a seated capacity of 13 000 and 19 000 in a seating standing combination.

www.theevent.co.za 36 EVENTS TO DIARISE

FEBRUARYINVESTING IN MINING AFRICA INDABA 20168 - 11CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA

IBTM ARABIA9 - 11ABU DHABI, UAE

AAXO LAUNCH AND TRAINING DAY 10 JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA

AFRICA ENERGY INDABA 201616 - 17JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA

AFRICABUILD16 - 18 LAGOS, NIGERIA

ECOMMERCE AFRICA CONFEX17 - 18 CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA

DESIGN INDABA CONFERENCE 201617 - 19CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA

MEETINGS AFRICA22 - 24JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA

ASIA-PACIFIC INCENTIVES AND MEETINGS EXPO (AIME)23 - 24MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA

SIGN AFRICA DURBAN24 - 25DURBAN, SOUTH AFRICA

AFRICA PRINT24 - 25DURBAN, SOUTH AFRICA

CASH HANDLING SHOW AFRICA 20161 - 2 JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA

FUTURE BANK AFRICA1 - 2 JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA

MARCH

APRIL

CARDS AND PAYMENTS AFRICA1 - 2 JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA

RETAIL WORLD AFRICA1 - 2 JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA

3RD ANNUAL REGIONAL SMART PROCUREMENT WORLD1 - 3CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA

THE BOOKMARKS 20163JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA

IMC DURBAN 201614 - 15DURBAN, SOUTH AFRICA

ACE OF M.I.C.E.16 - 18ISTANBUL, TURKEY

INTERNATIONAL LUXURY TRAVEL MARKET AFRICA4 - 6CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA

WORLD TRAVEL MARKET6 - 8CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA

IT&CM CHINA + CTW CHINA6 - 8SHANGHAI, PEOPLE’S REPUBLIC OF CHINA

SIGN AFRICA POLOKWANE7POLOKWANE, SOUTH AFRICA

AFRICA PRINT7POLOKWANE, SOUTH AFRICA

INTERNATIONAL FRANCHISE EXPO8 - 10JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA

ITB BERLIN9 - 13BERLIN, GERMANY

MAY

KENYA TRADE SHOW15 - 17NAIROBI, KENYA

CAREER INDABA16 - 17JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA

IMEX FRANKFURT 19 - 21 FRANKFURT, GERMANY

A’SAMBENI AFRICA26 - 30BULAWAYO, ZIMBABWE

ZIMBABWE INTERNATIONAL TRADE FAIR26 - 30BULAWAYO, ZIMBABWE

INDABA7 - 9 DURBAN, SOUTH AFRICA

SIGN AFRICA CAPE TOWN11 - 12CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA

AFRICA PRINT11 - 12CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA

AFRICAN UTILITY WEEK AND CLEAN POWER AFRICA17 - 19 CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA

CHINA TRADE WEEK18 - 20DURBAN, SOUTH AFRICA

SECUREX 201624 - 26JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA

A-OSH EXPO24 - 26JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA

AUTOMECHANIKA31 - 3 JUNEJOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA

www.theevent.co.za 37EVENTS TO DIARISE

JUNE JULYSAACI CONGRESS5 - 7 MANGAUNG, SOUTH AFRICA

ATF INTERNATIONAL APPAREL, TEXTILE AND FOOTWARE TRADE EVENT7 - 9CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA

AUTOEXPO AFRICA 201610 - 12NAIROBI, KENYA

OIL & GAS AFRICA – EAST AFRICA10 - 12NAIROBI, KENYA

NIGERIA OIL & GAS CONFERENCE & EXHIBITION13 - 16ABUJA, NIGERIA

IBTM AMERICA15 - 17NASHVILLE, USA

KENYA INTERNATIONAL TRADE EXHIBITION 16 - 18NAIROBI, KENYA

AFRICA’S BIG SEVEN 201619 - 21JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA

RETAIL SOLUTIONS AFRICA 201619 - 21JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA

AFRICA RAIL28 - 29JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA

SABC EDUCATION AFRICAN EDUWEEK 201629 - 30JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA

SIGN AFRICA NELSPRUIT29NELSPRUIT, SOUTH AFRICA

AFRICA PRINT- NELSPRUIT29NELSPRUIT, SOUTH AFRICA

AUGUST

SEPTEMBER

MARKEX 20166 - 7 JULY JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA

THE MONEY EXPO 20168 - 9JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA

POWER-GEN AFRICA19 - 21JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA

OIL & GAS AFRICA 13 - 15 CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA

FUN & BIZ AFRICA5 - 7JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA

100% DESIGN SOUTH AFRICA5 - 9JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA

INTERBUILD AFRICA 201617 - 20JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA

THE COMMERCIAL UAV SHOW AFRICA 201623 - 24JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA

EYE FOCUS AFRICA6 - 8JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA

IBTM CHINA7 - 8BEIJING, PEOPLE’S REPUBLIC OF CHINA

IBTM LATIN AMERICA7 - 8CIUDAD DE MEXICO, MEXICO

SIGN AFRICA & FESPA AFRICA7 - 9JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA

OCTOBER

©Sebastian U

nrau

NOVEMBER

BUSINESS ENTREPRENEURSHIP & FRANCHISE EXPO8 - 11JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA

ELECTRA MINING AFRICA12 - 16JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA

FOOD & DRINK TECHNOLOGY AFRICA 201614 - 15JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA

THE DIGITAL EDUCATION SHOW AFRICA4 - 5JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA

AFRICA AIR EXPO12 - 14ACCRA, GHANA

IMEX AMERICA 18 - 20LAS VEGAS, USA

AFRICA OIL WEEK/ AFRICA UPSTREAM CONFERENCE31 - 4 NOVEMBER CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA

WATER AFRICA AND WEST AFRICA BUILDING AND CONSTRUCTION NIGERIA 2016 8 - 10ABUJA, NIGERIA

55TH ICCA CONGRESS13 - 16KUCHING, MALAYSIA

12TH TANZANIA TRADE SHOW 201624 - 27 DAR ES SALAAM, TANZANIA

EIBTM29 NOV - 1 DECBARCELONA, SPAIN

www.theevent.co.za 38 ASSOCIATIONS

8 JUNE 2016 ANNOUNCED AS “GLOBAL EXHIBITIONS DAY” BY UFI AND IAEE

There is a global initiative driven by exhibition organisers, venues, associations, and service providers worldwide to stage the fi rst ever “Global Exhibitions Day” on 8 June 2016. South Africa’s EXSA and AAXO are both members of the task force. This event will be truly global at the outset, but the intention is for continual development.

Two major industry stalwarts, UFI – The Global Association of the Exhibition Industry and UFI – The Global Association of the Exhibition Industry originated the concept. The campaign’s two-fold purpose is fi rstly to promote the value of exhibiting for companies as well as in various other spheres like trade and nationalisation. Secondly, it is meant to be a celebration of the people working in the exhibitions industry showcasing career opportunities.

EXSA 2016 CONFERENCE

The Conference scheduled for 31 January to 2 February 2016 will commence with a farm style lunch in the grounds of Spier followed by speed networking, which organisers hope will bolster efforts for delegates to get to know each other. The theme is “Engage your senses”. The patron members will also be welcomed at the conference.

The headline speakers are Guy Lundy, a qualifi ed futurist and experienced scenario planner with a Masters in Futures Studies. Chris Moerdyk is the former head of strategic planning and Public Affairs for BMW, South Africa. He is a top marketing thought leader and influential in the SA advertising industry. Other speakers on the line-up are Fred Road, Steve Evans, Dylan Kohlstadt and Barry O’ Mahoney,

SAACI

SAACI is the umbrella body of the business-events industry in Southern Africa, dedicated to effi ciency and professionalism in the industry since 1987.

The work we do is guided by four key principles:1. SAACI Community – where

we interact with our members and stakeholders.

2. SAACI Intelligence – where we gather and publish information that helps our members to grow their business.

3. SAACI Academy – where we professionalise the industry through certifi cation, education and training.

4. SAACI Into Africa – where we expand our network into all South African provinces and all Southern African Countries.

Four key tributary pillars support them:5. Branding and Communication

– where we communicate innovatively and grow the SAACI brand.

6. Stakeholder Engagement - where we keep everyone with a stake in the industry informed and involved.

7. Sustainability – where we provide guidance for ‘sustainable best practice’, both in terms of business and the enviroment in which we operate.

8. Future Focus – where we encourage and support industry members younger then 35.

With nearly 30 years of being your partner in the business events industry, we have a great track record of 1500 individual, corporate and patron members representing all sectors.

ICCA NOW HAS 1 000 IN MEMBERSHIP

Established in 1963, sharing information about international association meetings for business advantage, ICCA has grown from the seven founders to 1 000 organisations and companies in membership in 90 countries.

In 1972, they had a reach of 160 members in 41 countries; by 1982 it was 69 countries with 450 members. In 1992 they had 600 members and in 2012, 900 members.

www.theevent.co.za 39ASSOCIATIONS

PAUL WOODWARD BIDS FAREWELL AS UFI MANAGING DIRECTOR

Paul Woodward, UFI Managing Director, had vacated the position after 5½ years and his successor is Kai Hattendorf. He is confi dent that he will hand over the reins of a strong association representing a robust industry; with UFI continuing to help the industry understand and defi ne a new future.

Six key themes emerged during his tenure: globalisation, blurring of boundaries between different event disciplines, a focus on quality and professionalism, a concern for the next generation of employees and customers, the need for better promotion and communication of the industry and importantly, the impact of digitalisation on business.

He leaves at a time when he considers the exhibition industry to be healthy and research suggests most parts of the world are better positioned post-2008 recession; even Europe is displaying growth. He said sustainability remains a key challenge for the industry. As always, opportunity will be balanced by challenges including technology enhancement, slower world growth and political upheaval. He said that security remains an important consideration.

UFI GLOBAL EXHIBITION BAROMETER FOR 2015 / 2016

The organisation has regularly assessed the impact of the economic downturn since 2009. Its basis is the perceptions of UFI members worldwide. For the current statistics, 201 members in 55 countries responded, which is representative of the situation worldwide.

Major results to be noted are as follows: When asked about their perception on the economic crisis, around half of respondents from all regions stated that the impact of the ‘economic crisis’ on their exhibition business is now over. For around 2 to 3 companies out of 10 in all regions, the crisis will be over in 2016.

On the topic of the most important business issues, respondents were asked to identify the top three for their business for the year ahead.

The results were stable in all surveys, with 80% of all answers relating to four issues, i.e.:• State of the national /

regional economy – 25% • Internal management

challenges – 19%• Local / national competition from

the exhibition industry – 18%• Global economic uncertainty – 16%

South African companies were responsible for 15 detailed responses with results as follows: When asked to comment on the economic crisis; 35% said that the impact of the crisis was now over, 25% still expected some impact in the year ahead and 40% said they still expected its impact in 2017 and beyond.The top three issues for the South Africans were: 1. State of the national /

regional economy, (32%)2. Local / national competition from

the exhibition industry, and (21%)3. Global economic uncertainty (18%).

When asked about expectations of turnover change when compared to the same period the year before, respondents reported a 57% increase.

©Larry Chen

40 DIRECTORY OF ADVERTISERS www.theevent.co.za

ADVERTISERSAAXO PAGE 22T. +27 11 549 8300 E. [email protected] W. www.ThebeReed.co.za

ACE OF MICE PAGE 28T. +90 216 465 95 56 / 57 E. [email protected] W. www.ameistanbul.com

Bidvest Van Rental PAGE 15T. +27 21 510 8602 E. [email protected] W. www.bidvestcarrental.co.za

ConCept G Exhibitions & EventsPAGE 08-09T. +27 86 122 2678 E. [email protected] W. www.conceptg.co.za

Crystal EventsPAGE 20 T. +27 21 555 3617E. [email protected] W. www.crystalevents.co.za

Event Planner’s Guide to Africa 2016 INSIDE BACK COVERT. +27 21 674 0646 E. juan-mari@fi lmeventmedia.co.za W. www.theevent.co.za

Exhibition Freighting G.S.M PAGE 20T. +27 21 552 7248 E. [email protected] W. www.ef-gsm.co.za

Expo CentreINSIDE FRONT COVER T. +27 11 494 1920 E. [email protected] W. www.expocentre.co.za

EXSAPAGE 38 T. +27 11 805 7272 E. [email protected] W. www.exsa.co.za

Folio TranslatePAGE 17 T. +27 21 426 2727 E. [email protected] W. www.folio-online.co.za

Gauteng Tourism AuthorityPAGE 07T. +27 11 085 2500 E. [email protected] W. www.gauteng.net

Markex PAGE 35 T. +27 10 003 3060 E. [email protected]. www.markex.co.za

Protea Hotel StellenboschPAGE 20 T. +27 21 880 9500 E. [email protected] W. www.proteahotels.com/stellenbosch

Resource Design PAGE 05T. +27 21 510 7776 E. [email protected] W. www.resourcedesign.co.za

SAACI PAGE 33, 38T. +27 41 374 5654 E. [email protected] W. www.saaci.org

South Africa National Convention Bureau PAGE 23 - 27T. +27 11 895 3000 E. [email protected] W. www.businessevents.southafrica.net

Sandton Convention CentreOUTSIDE FRONT COVER, 04T. +27 11 779 0000 E. [email protected] W. www.saconvention.co.za

Setbuild PAGE 21T. +27 11 452 1808 E. [email protected] W. www.setbuild.co.za

Tshwane Events CentreOUTSIDE BACK COVER T. +27 12 327 1487 E. [email protected] W. www.tshwane-events.co.za

Urban TonicPAGE 21 T. +27 21 713 4439 E. [email protected] W. www.urbantonic.co.za

USBPAGE 21 T. +27 11 465 4410 E. [email protected] W. www.uniquespeakerbureau.com

World Travel MarketPAGE 03 T. +27 11 549 8300 E. [email protected] W. www.ThebeReed.co.za

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Cover Image: Courtesy of Sandton Convention Centre

Publisher: Lance Gibbonslance@fi lmeventmedia.co.za

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Now in its 4th year, The Event Planner’s Guide to Africa has reached over 15 000 clients through its print publicati on and 410 000 through the e-books. Distributed in collaborati on with the SANCB to Event Organisers, PCOs, Exhibiti on Organisers, Incenti ve Travel Houses, Corporate Clients and Government Offi ces; and to 600 Internati onal African Associati ons and through the following Media Partnerships:

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