Stop, Drop, Roll: Put out the flames of dining woes
EXCLUSIVE: Carley Crose, CMP, CIS, program manager at Bishop-McCann, shares some delicious tips to help planners keep clients and attendees happy with a successful dining experience. Catering is at the heart of meetings and events, but it can also be a pressing issue for attendees and clients. Karlie Cross With rising costs, increased dietary requirements, and "wow" expectations, achieving success can be difficult. So how do you eliminate these dining problems? stop. Don't expect your venue or hotel partner to deliver a 5-star menu on a budget with quick service. Instead, set clear expectations with your client about costs and what their budget allows. Think about how you can get creative with your chef. Explore budget-friendly options to enhance a simple menu, and consider using local suppliers or modifying the menu to suit the seasons, resulting in cheaper offerings. Change format. Is a reception style or buffet better suited for your group than a plate dinner? Will the sumptuous appetizers…
MIA reaction to Chancellor’s Autumn Budget 2024
The Meetings Industry Association (MIA) has reacted to the Chancellor's 2024 Autumn Budget, which was tabled in the House of Commons yesterday.MIA CEO Kerrin MacPhie said:Minimum wage and national living wage“We welcome the Government’s commitment to delivering a ‘real living wage’ but must recognize that these changes reflect a further increase in costs for businesses while exacerbating the recruitment and staffing challenges across our industry that have been widely reported.“The rise in the national living wage to £12.21 an hour for over-21s and a 16% increase in the minimum wage for 18 to 20-year-olds will have an impact on our industry, increasing operating costs from April 2025 and further impacting Pricing and Profitability.“Given the ongoing staff shortages in the industry, we have been actively encouraging organizations to consider employing apprentices to fill and grow into roles. Today it is announced that from April 2025 the hourly pay for new and existing apprentices will increase from £6.50 to £7.55, which was…
National Outdoor Activities Association (NOEA) Budget Response
27th November 2019 Bath NOEA Awards Ceremony was held on 27th November 2019 at the Bath Pump Room and Roman BathsThis will never be the budget to support our industry, but the reality is that events and events businesses are once again being neglected and there is little to be optimistic about. It does raise the question of how much the government wants this £65m property.For us in the events industry, this budget is all about jobs and talent, something we at NOEA have prioritized over the past few years. With this in mind, we support raising the living wage and minimum wage as it supports our agenda of providing better, more stable careers for event professionals.However, while the support for employees is evident, unfortunately there is no relief for the businesses that employ them. The increase in National Insurance represents a range of other taxes (pensions etc.) that make employment more expensive. This, along with changes to employment rights,…
Skoda plans VW budget electric car: new platform,
Skoda Auto Volkswagen India Private Limited (SAVIPL) is planning to enter the Indian EV (electric vehicle) market. There is talk that Volkswagen ID.4 and Skoda Enyak Will travel to India. However, a new media report claims that Volkswagen may abandon plans to introduce the ID.4 as it will be an expensive deal and Volkswagen dealers are reportedly not showing confidence in the product. For context, SAVIPL was in talks with Mahindra & Mahindra to jointly develop the cost-effective MEB21 platform, but things didn't go well between the two brands and now Volkswagen has canceled the PEAK EV project. Now, the Volkswagen Group is taking a different approach and considering launching an entry-level electric SUV based on the new low-cost CMP 21 (China Main Platform) architecture. The upcoming Volkswagen electric car will challenge the dominance of Tata Nexon, which is currently priced in the Rs 12.49-lakh to Rs 17.19-lakh range. The new CMP platform will be developed by Volkswagen China and…
Strategies to expand your marketing budget
Paige TownleyPhoto © Getty Images. In the competitive world of sporting events, marketing is a crucial but often costly endeavor for event planners and destinations. While planners focus on promoting their organization's specific events, targeting attendees, spectators, and sponsors to ensure successful turnout and participation, destinations often focus on promoting their location as a desirable venue and highlighting Local attractions, facilities and amenities to attract event organizers and attendees. Despite their differences, both groups are constantly looking for ways to expand their marketing budgets without sacrificing effectiveness. Even with limited funds, adopting smart strategies and leveraging available resources can have a big impact. Knowing your target audience and where to reach them can make your marketing efforts more efficient and effective. Know your target audience Maximizing your marketing budget starts with understanding and engaging your target audience. Without it, it seems impossible to ensure efficient resource allocation. As Melonie Sturm, senior vice president and managing director of Watauga Group, points…
Review: Dacia Duster remains the king of budget SUVs
Dacia is steadily transforming into a brand ideal for a certain type of audience, proving that cars can be affordable and cool at the same time. Leading the way is the new Duster, which embodies the Romanian automaker's core values while ushering the brand into a new era. We recently tested this updated subcompact SUV with the entry-level 1.0-liter Eco-G powertrain in a variety of driving conditions to see how much it has evolved and improved over its popular predecessor. Review: Jeep Avenger proves ICE and manual combos still have appeal Launched in November 2023, the third-generation Duster brings major updates both internally and externally. Dacia's new design language gives the vehicle a more substantial appearance, although it only increases by 23 mm (0.9 in), taking the overall length to 4,343 mm (171 in). Currently, the only subcompact SUVs in Europe that are longer than the Duster are the Citroen C3 Aircross and Opel Frontera twins. However, Dacia will soon…
How planners can manage the “easy button” at events
Listen to Audio Working with an agency can reduce costs and save time In many cases, planners have limited resources at hand. This often means looking to third-party agencies and independent planners to achieve their goals and put on a great event. Smart Meetings spoke with Michelle Crosby, CMP, CITP, account manager at Bright Spot Incentives and Events, and Yvette Campbell, CMP, conference broker at Meetings Made Easy, about how planners can find third-party agencies and independent planners that fit their needs and integrate resources into their organizations. To watch the full webinar, click here. Read more: Practical budgeting tips for post-pandemic event planners Cooperation with third-party organizations Many third parties only provide sourcing, meaning they find the destination, while others assist with the procurement as well as contract negotiations. Third-party legwork includes registration, promotional items, air manifests, airline reservations, transportation, food and beverage, audio-visual production, information gathering, speaker note collection, agendas, and on-site logistics. “[After that, the third party]completely…
Developing member countries rank high costs as top new challenge
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Budget challenges and rising costs are the top issues driving decision-making in the global meetings and events industry, according to the Q3 2024 Pulse of Meetings and Events Survey conducted by Global DMC Partners (GDP), the world’s largest network of independent DMCs and professional event service providers. “Rising costs have been an ongoing issue since late 2022, and our latest survey shows that higher lodging, dining and A/V rates are among the biggest challenges facing planners today,” said Catherine Chaulet, president and CEO of Global DMC Partners. “Planners are facing a perfect storm of rising costs and inflationary pressures. Without drastically adjusting budgets, there is little room for innovation.” The survey is based on 165 responses collected between June 27 and August 9 from meeting and event professionals, with the majority based in the U.S. and Canada, and 20% based in the U.K. and Europe. Respondents were broken down into corporate/direct planners (37%), agency/third-party planners (40%), associations…
3 Tips for Managing Your Event Budget
Hosting your own event can be transformative for your organization. It provides an unparalleled opportunity to engage directly with your target audience, which is the entire purpose of third-party events. Instead, you have the freedom to create an experience from scratch, tailored precisely to your audience’s needs and preferences. This level of control means you can craft a truly personalized experience that deeply resonates with your target audience, whether they’re customers, prospects, or internal teams. However, the upfront costs can be higher and, if not done properly, can result in a failed campaign, wasting your resources and time. As with any campaign, risks need to be managed. Enter: the campaign budget. Budgeting is both an art and a science, especially when it comes to event marketing. Managing your event budget effectively will ensure that your event delivers the best value at a reasonable cost. Here are three essential tips for managing your budget when hosting an event. 1. Customize your…
The secret role of aesthetic decoration in corporate activities
Listen to Audio The corporate events space is saturated, and companies are faced with a challenge: ensuring their gatherings stand out and are memorable. While content, speakers, and networking opportunities are critical, one often underestimated element can set an event apart—the décor. More than just a backdrop, décor can significantly impact the success of an event, influencing everything from attendee engagement to brand perception. Imagine walking into a room that exudes your brand’s energy, innovation, and attention to detail. Attendees form an impression before they even open their mouths. Decor acts like a silent ambassador, communicating your commitment to excellence. When a space is thoughtfully designed to incorporate brand colors and themes, it creates a powerful first impression and sets a positive tone for the entire event. Thoughtful design doesn’t have to be extravagant or expensive. However, it’s an intangible but important element that often gets put on the back burner – especially when it comes to budgetary concerns. That…
The secret role of aesthetic decoration in corporate activities
Listen to Audio The corporate events space is saturated, and companies are faced with a challenge: ensuring their gatherings stand out and are memorable. While content, speakers, and networking opportunities are critical, one often underestimated element can set an event apart—the décor. More than just a backdrop, décor can significantly impact the success of an event, influencing everything from attendee engagement to brand perception. Imagine walking into a room that exudes your brand’s energy, innovation, and attention to detail. Attendees form an impression before they even open their mouths. Decor acts like a silent ambassador, communicating your commitment to excellence. When a space is thoughtfully designed to incorporate brand colors and themes, it creates a powerful first impression and sets a positive tone for the entire event. Thoughtful design doesn’t have to be extravagant or expensive. However, it’s an intangible but important element that often gets put on the back burner – especially when it comes to budgetary concerns. That…
254 – Trade Shows on a Budget – Get More Leads for Less –
Don’t let budget shortfalls or cutbacks hold you back from hosting your next trade show, expo, or event! Join Trade Show University host Jim Cermak and his guest Rich Rodrigues, Trade Show Bard and Account Manager for EDE, a full-service trade show and event management company. ** Watch the video of this interview! We discuss: – What to do when your budget is cut – Creative ideas to maximize the effectiveness of your activities – Maximize opportunities for more event crowds and participants – What are micro-campaigns and how they can help grow your brand – #TheImportanceofCommunity – And much more! Connect with Rich Rodrigues – ** Want more leads, more sales, and more profits at your next trade show? Let’s talk! Book your free 15-minute strategy call here: ** Join the Trade Show University weekly update newsletter: About the author JimJim Cermak has over 30 years of experience exhibiting, planning and operating trade shows. As a professional trainer, he…
Which Skoda is right for your budget?
Launched – Skoda Slavia Monte Carlo, Slavia Sportline, Kushaq Sportline ŠKODA Slavia Monte Carlo – A century-old rally legend ŠKODA celebrates its 112th anniversary in motorsport with the launch of the Slavia Monte Carlo Edition. The model pays tribute to the brand’s illustrious past in the Monte Carlo Rally. The Monte Carlo badge represents victories and significant achievements, symbolizing a rich history that dates back to 1912. The model reflects ŠKODA’s commitment to combining motorsport tradition with modern automotive progress. It also meets the growing demand for unique, performance-oriented cars in the Indian market. The Skoda Slavia Monte Carlo is available with two engine options to suit different driving preferences. The 1.0 TSI engine can be mated to a six-speed manual or automatic gearbox. It offers a balanced combination of performance and fuel efficiency. For those seeking a more dynamic driving experience, the 1.5 TSI engine is mated to a seven-speed DSG and front-wheel drive. It offers enhanced power and…
Best City Commuter Cars of 2024: Comfort and Budget
Driving in the city is not an easy task, especially when you are in a big city. The inevitable city traffic and uneven roads may affect your driving experience and the condition of your car over time. Therefore, choosing the right car is always a wise choice. Today, we will provide you with a guide to the best cars for city commuting in 2024, ensuring your comfort and budget. Maruti Suzuki Alto K10 One of the best cars for city driving. The Maruti Suzuki Alto K10 is a smart and affordable choice. It is a compact hatchback that is powered by a 1-litre K10B petrol engine and comes with a 7-inch smart infotainment system, dual airbags and a fuel consumption of up to 22 km/l. Its compact size is a great advantage in the city as you can easily weave through traffic and parking will not be a problem. It is also great for stop-and-go traffic and is a hatchback…
Impact of Union Budget 2024 on the Indian Automotive Industry
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced the Union Budget for the fiscal year 2024-25 on Tuesday, July 23. Surprisingly, she did not mention the automotive sector directly in her statement, however, some key takeaways were raised in Parliament regarding customs duties, local production units, and a green ecosystem related to the automotive sector. Here’s everything you need to know. Impact on the electric vehicle industry ‘Electric Vehicles’ is a growing topic in India today. The Union Budget has made EVs a major focus and has highlighted several points related to the EV industry. Firstly, there is a duty exemption on 25 critical minerals like lithium, cobalt, copper and the BCD exemption for lithium-ion batteries has been extended till March 31, 2026. These elements are widely used in the production of EV batteries and the removal of duty on these elements will make the production of EV batteries cheaper and ultimately make them affordable for EV owners. Secondly, the budget cuts the…
203 – Trade Show Budget Breakdown and Key Missing Items
In this episode, we’ll analyze how businesses spend their trade show dollars, based on an article from Exhibitor Magazine. From here, you can learn if you’re spending too much or too little in a certain area. Plus, I’ll share something shocking and crucial that’s missing from these numbers! 32% – Booth space, – gives you the opportunity to get in front of your target customers. McDonald’s – Real estate. The best location is not cheap! 11% – Showing services – carpet, internet, electricity, vacuuming, etc. This means an average of 43% is just there! 9% – shipping costs, 14% – Exhibit Design and Construction – This doesn’t refer to the graphics, but to the exhibit itself. Obviously, a larger booth might cost more, but it’s still a percentage. 6% – Graphic Design & Production – Work with someone who understands trade shows! More like a billboard than a magazine. 13% – travel and accommodation, 5% - Marketing and Promotions -…
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