As an industry, we have an economic impact of £11 Billion to the UK economy, the 6th largest in the UK.
Despite this, the needs of the events industry have historically been under-represented at government level, but this is changing.
As an industry, we have an economic impact of £11 Billion to the UK economy, the 6th largest in the UK.
Despite this, the needs of the events industry have historically been under-represented at government level, but this is changing.
Working collaboratively with other industry bodies such as the BVEP (Business Visits and Events Partnership), AEO has lobbied the UK Government to ensure that the events industry is firmly on the agenda. The result is that AEO chief executive, Chris Skeith, has been named among the members of the first UK Events Industry Board (EIB), which will work closely with government to help identify and drive new business for the sector and for Britain.
The board will report into the Minister for Tourism (and subsequently the Inter-Ministerial Group on Tourism), and the GREAT programme board.
In addition, AEO and our members have positions with regulators and policy setters such as HSE and BSI, where opinions are sought on the everchanging regulatory landscape. Such influence is filtered through the various AEO and cross association working groups.
AEO also represents the needs of the UK exhibition industry at an international level and formed the Independent Organiser (ION), on a strategic alliance, predominantly made up of members of the AEO and SISO a 'for-profit independent organiser' operating globally.
The network provides a framework for these organisations to come together, share experiences, and identify areas of common interest. Led by a steering committee, they will also be responsible for commissioning research, using the insight guide progressive and positive change, enabling the industry to grow on the international stage.
On behalf of its members, ION will act as a representative in discussions with governments, regulators, venues, and other associations as appropriate.
Participation in the Network is open to all members of AEO & SISO who operate on an international scale. If you are interested in joining the network please contact either AEO or SISO.
Furthermore, AEO's CEO is on the board of UFI, the global association of the exhibition industry and also chairs the association committee.