Conference and Hospitality Show 2018 returns to rock Leeds with brand new exhibitors and industry meet ups

 

The Conference and Hospitality Show (CHS18) is returning on Tuesday 24 April to Leeds first direct arena. The flagship show for CHS Group is set for its biggest year yet, with 35 per cent of the exhibitors being brand new additions for 2018.

Now in its 9th year, the Conference and Hospitality Show is one of the UK’s leading shows for event organisers, venue finders and PAs. Providing attendees with the opportunity to meet over 200 national suppliers under one roof, the show has firmly established its roots in Leeds.

With new exhibitors including Lime Venues Portfolio, The Grand Brighton, Visit Bristol and Venues of Excellence, the 2018 show is set to rock Leeds once again with an incredible range of independent hotels, tech and event suppliers along with a diverse selection of groups.

2018 will also see the shows first industry ‘meet ups’ held throughout the day at the VIP Rockstar Bar, offering visitors an opportunity to speak to industry professionals one-on-one in a relaxed environment.The ‘meet ups’ are designed to host a range of industry groups, including the Association of Independent Event Agents (AIEA), Delegate Wranglers, EventProfs who Learn (EWL) and a meet up specifically for PAs from across the UK.

Attendees will be able to explore the exclusive Little Black Book Zone, which returns after a successful inaugural year in 2017. Dubbed the ‘go-to’ place for bookers looking to access restaurants, bars and private members clubs, this year sees the space expanded in a response to increased demand from exhibitors and attendees.

A wide variety of suppliers will also feature, including specialist event company Off Limits Group and national entertainment agency Trevor George Entertainment. Thrill-seeking types will likely steer towards Lotus Driving Academy, whilst luxury tipi supplier Big Chief Tipis will be in attendance to provide an alternative to the run-of-the-mill marquee.

CHS18 will welcome a number of guest speakers, including Julia Charles-Wiginton, an entrepreneur and event organiser who creates amazing events for a host of blue chip corporate companies and celebrities. She will share her inspiring experience following her Dragon’s Den appearance as the first ever person to accept and then reject the deal offered by four dragons.

Abigail Jones, Executive Assistant to Partners at Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer Law Firm will provide insight to EAs and PAs in attendance. Abigail, who has been shortlisted for PA of The Year for 2016 and 2017, will explore the necessity of managing upwards in a demanding sector and give advice on how to handle providing an EA/PA service to a high pressure boss.

Whilst the Event Management Stream will welcome Jake Hernadez, an international crisis and security consultant, to conduct a session which will likely be hotly anticipated in light of recent events. He will provide a practical guide for events professionals on how to perform necessary security checks when planning an event.

 

Emma Cartmell, Chief Executive Officer at CHS Group commented:

“We are absolutely delighted to bring the CHS18 back to Leeds and re-affirm our commitment to the city as a fantastic conferencing destination.

Not only do the first direct arena provide us with a brilliant venue, but we are indebted to the organisations which have provided continual support for the show. LeedsBID, Conference Leeds and Leeds Hotels and Venues Association, along with local suppliers and media partners, which have all been a key part of our journey.

We’ve got plenty of exciting new additions for CHS18, including hosting a series of industry ‘meet ups’ in the VIP bar which we hope will be a great success.

Visitor sign ups are already higher than any year previously and it’s great to see a number of high calibre buyers included in that – roll on CHS18!”

Complimentary VIP tickets are availableforevent planners, venue finders, PA/EAs and offer a whole host of benefits and extras on the day, including access to the VIP Rockstar Bar, complimentary food and beverages, a VIP goody bag and other treats. A VIP Pack will also be sent prior to the show with special prize draws only available to VIPs. Complimentary accommodation is available for VIPs who need to travel for over an hour to Leeds. For more information visit www.chs18.co.uk/which-ticket-is-for-you/.

 

CHS18, Tuesday 24th April, Leeds first direct Arena.

www.chs18.co.uk

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