New trade association for events industry in Northern Ireland

A new trade association to represent the interests of the Northern Ireland events industry has been formed.

Details were announced at ‘In Any Event’, a major conference and exhibition for those in the events industry held at the Europa Hotel.

A group of eight companies, including some of the largest in the sector, have formed a steering committee to be responsible for establishing the not-for-profit trade association.

Chairman of the steering committee and founder of ‘In Any Event’ Michael Jeffrey (Managing Director of Expand a Sign Ireland) said: “Events are a rapidly growing area – exciting, entertaining and engaging with a proven return on investment both culturally and economically but the industry has now reached a stage where it needs its own dedicated trade association.

“All companies and organizations which are involved in events will be invited to join and we hope to cover over 75 per cent of the market within the first two years.”

Speaking at the ‘In Any Event’ conference, NITB Chief Executive Alan Clarke said: “Events clearly played a role in continuing to establish tourism as a key driver in the local economy.

“This year alone Northern Ireland has played host to several world class events. “The recent visit of the Tall Ships for example, which attracted up to 800,000 visitors and generated £20 million worth of revenue to the local economy, is proof that Northern Ireland can deliver truly international experiences.

“We are in an exciting period and opportunities are ours to grasp. Collectively we must pull together, to create a long term sustainable industry that ensures economic prosperity across Northern Ireland.”

Guest speaker Alistair McGowan, Interim CEO, Belfast 2013 also told delegates that a recently successful bid to host the World Police and Fire Games in Northern Ireland in 2013 would bring in an estimated 25,000 visitors and an income of £30–40 million. The games are the third largest multisport event in the world with 10,000 competitors competing in 13,000 events.

Now in its second year, the ‘In Any Event’ conference provided a showcase to promote the events industry in Northern Ireland, help develop the industry’s export potential and establish Northern Ireland as destination of choice in the UK, Ireland and international events marketplace.

Exhibitors taking part in the event, which was attended by around 180 delegates, ranged from Bluetooth marketing firms to event venue providers and outdoor catering companies.

Tags: Event Trade Associations, Events Industry NI, In Any Event, NI, Northern Ireland

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