Event industry improving, says Keele Conferences
The deputy head of conferences at Keele Conferences and Events has told Insider that the event industry is definitely “on the up” in the region. Marcus Wilson spoke as the business celebrated its 40th anniversary.
He said: “We’re definitely seeing an increase in bookings – we are already taking enquiries about events for late 2012, which is great news.
"In the last couple of months, we have held two major events. The latest involved 280 football teams and 6,000 players from across the world coming to Keele. Before that, we hosted a Japanese animation convention, when about 1,200 people stayed with us.”
Wilson said the business, which is part of Keele University, did feel the pinch as the recession took hold, but said “we were able to prepare, as we could see it coming”.
He said: We had to look at costings, and make sure that we were offering the highest quality at an affordable price. People were, quite rightly, watching every penny they spend, and we need to make sure we are offering value for money.”
