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Hilton Puckrup Hall Hotel & Golf Club, Tewkesbury Named Sports Venue of the Year at the Famtastic Awards 2026 Featured post
Industry News04-11-26

Hilton Puckrup Hall Hotel & Golf Club, Tewkesbury Named Sports Venue of the Year at the Famtastic Awards 2026

TEWKESBURY, UK - Hilton Puckrup Hall Hotel & Golf Club, Tewkesbury has been crowned Sports Venue of the Year at the prestigious Famtastic Awards 2026, recognising the venue's outstanding sporting facilities, exceptional event delivery and commitment to guest experience.The Famtastic Awards are uniquely judged by agents and buyers within the events industry, with judges only scoring venues they have personally booked and experienced. This respected peer[1]led approach celebrates venues that consistently deliver excellence, without the influence of marketing budgets or voting campaigns.Set within 140 acres of picturesque Gloucestershire countryside, Hilton Puckrup Hall Hotel & Golf Club, Tewkesbury has established itself as one of the region's most versatile destinations for sports, meetings, events and leisure stays. The award recognises the venue's ability to seamlessly combine sport, hospitality, accommodation and event expertise within a single destination.At the heart of the venue is its renowned 18-hole championship golf course, complemented by mini golf facilities, 15 contemporary meeting and event spaces for up to 180 delegates, 112 guest accommodation, a health club and leisure facilities, extensive outdoor grounds and the award-winning hospitality synonymous with the Hilton brand.Throughout the year, the hotel welcomes a diverse range of sporting and business events, including golf days, sports team stays, conferences, wellness retreats, fundraising events and residential group experiences. Its unique blend of facilities allows organisers to create memorable experiences while benefiting from the convenience of having accommodation, dining, leisure and event spaces all under one roof.A standout example was the recent Hilton Supply Management Golf Day, which brought together sport, networking, corporate hospitality and entertainment in one successful event. The occasion showcased both the quality of the venue's golf facilities and the team's expertise in delivering complex, multi-faceted events.The hotel also regularly hosts cricket, football and rugby teams, alongside corporate meetings, team-building experiences, international group tours, exclusive-use events within its grade II listed Manor House and large-scale social gatherings.Speaking about the award, Ahmet Donmez, general manager, said: “the award reflects the dedication of our entire team and our commitment to delivering exceptional experiences for every guest, whether they are attending a golf day, staying as part of a sports team, hosting a conference or enjoying a leisure break. We are incredibly proud of what makes Hilton Puckrup Hall unique: our ability to combine outstanding sports facilities, beautiful surroundings and world-class hospitality in one destination."Additionally, Leigh-Anne Thombs, sales manager added "we are absolutely delighted to be recognised as Sports Venue of the Year at the Famtastic Awards 2026. This award is particularly meaningful because it is judged by industry professionals who have first-hand experience of our venue and services”Located just minutes from the M5 and within easy reach of Birmingham, Bristol and the Midlands, Hilton Puckrup Hall Hotel & Golf Club, Tewkesbury offers the perfect balance of accessibility and tranquillity. Surrounded by rolling countryside, the venue provides an inspiring setting for sporting events, team-building activities, corporate gatherings and leisure escapes.The Sports Venue of the Year title further cements Hilton Puckrup Hall's reputation as one of the UK's leading destinations for sports hospitality and event experiences, celebrating a year of continued growth, innovation and excellence.

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Factory International launches event talent legacy programme for brands and organisers Featured post
Industry News03-11-26

Factory International launches event talent legacy programme for brands and organisers

Factory International will work with organisations hosting major events and brand experiences at the venue to create event management placements for local talent, alongside opportunities to teach and mentor.Factory International has launched a new Event Management & Operations course at Aviva Studios to address industry skills shortages and open doors for residents from Greater Manchester who lack the experience, connections, and opportunities needed to start their careers.The 12-week course will connect emerging talent with work placements on major commercial events and form Factory International’s new event talent legacy programme. It is the latest programme from Factory Academy, the organisation’s free training initiative, which has supported more than 2,000 people since 2018, with 56% progressing into paid work. Factory Academy is working to improve diversity and inclusivity in the creative industries. It was created to open up accessible career pathways into the creative industries and boost creative skills across the region.The course aims to support 15 Greater Manchester residents per intake, with two to three courses planned each year. Open to those who are unemployed or earning below the Real Living Wage, it combines industry-led training, practical projects, mentoring and networking. Participants will also be individually matched with placements on high-profile events, from major brand activations and award ceremonies to international sporting events.Partners can also contribute in ways that reflect their expertise and resources, including guest teaching, mentoring, industry panels and real-world project briefs. Factory Academy will work with each organisation to shape an opportunity that benefits participants while creating meaningful local impact beyond the event itself.Stephanie Williams, Head of Events at Aviva Studios, said: “Manchester has an incredible pool of creative talent, and we’re seeing more agencies open offices here or relocate to the city. As the sector grows, so will the demand for skilled people.“We want Aviva Studios to help nurture that talent and create a pipeline of people with the skills and experience to build successful careers here. By connecting local people with major events, industry expertise and high-quality placements, we can help Manchester’s creative sector continue to thrive.”Participants will learn to work with international brands, respond to creative briefs and develop skills relevant to the planning and delivery of large-scale events and productions.Gary Briggs, Director of Training and Skills at Factory International, said: “Our industry needs new talent, but securing that first meaningful opportunity can be incredibly difficult without experience or established networks.“Major events bring together an extraordinary concentration of knowledge, creativity and technical expertise. Opening up even a small part of that could help someone take their first step into the industry.“Partners benefit too. Bringing different experiences and perspectives into the room can challenge assumptions and help organisations understand how the communities around them view their brands and events.”Factory Academy is now looking for organisations and industry professionals to provide placements, teaching, project briefs, careers sessions and mentoring.

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Live Group Wins 2026 Cvent Excellence Award Featured post
Industry News03-11-26

Live Group Wins 2026 Cvent Excellence Award

3rd November, London, UK: Live Group has been named winner of the Events & Sourcing Partner award at the 2026 Cvent Excellence Awards, Europe, the annual awards program that honors standout leaders across the meetings, events, and hospitality industry.Live Group received the recognition following the transformation of Live Group’s venue sourcing service over the past year. Once driven by team expertise the service has grown into a core strategic offering and a significant, fast-growing part of the business.Live Group expanded its venue sourcing with Cvent Supplier Network (CSN) and Venue Directory GRATIS. Enquiry volumes have since multiplied many times over and are still growing month on month. Colleagues across the Venue Sourcing, Client Services, Delivery and Sales teams in the UK and APAC now use the platforms, allowing Live Group to handle much higher demand while connecting more clients with the right venues.For clients, the results have been tangible. Live Group’s approach to sourcing and its strong relationships with venue partners have helped them get more value from their budgets. Customers have also run more events with one significantly increasing its confirmed events over the past year. Live Group maintains a strong conversion rate across enquiries, with clients rating the venue sourcing experience an average of 4.6 out of 5 over a six-month period.“We’re incredibly proud to be recognised as Events & Venue Sourcing Partner of the Year, and grateful to Cvent for the recognition. Over the past year our team has turned venue sourcing into something much bigger: a faster, more transparent service that fits the right venue to the audience and supports every event from the first enquiry through to delivery. This award belongs to a team that has embraced new ways of working and never lost sight of the people at the heart of every event.” – Stephen D. Pickett, Group Managing Director, Live Group

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$4m and rising as IBTM Ignite Investors Get First Look at Start-up Businesses Featured post
Industry News02-11-26

$4m and rising as IBTM Ignite Investors Get First Look at Start-up Businesses

2nd November, IBTM World: IBTM Ignite is bringing a growing pool of $4m in potential investment together with ambitious startup businesses, as its mentoring and workshop programme prepares founders for introductions to investors at IBTM World.Delivered in partnership with specialist consultancy allpoints, Ignite is moving through its onboarding phase, with more investors joining and a greater pot to pitch for. Early work with participating businesses is revealing ideas across the event experience, from live AI interpretation, such as Voicefrom AI, to event operations technology, including KNO Events’ tools for managing budgets, suppliers and logistics.In audience engagement, businesses such as Bridged Media are helping organisers turn interest into registrations and commercial opportunities. Always Friday combines AI agents with event specialists to simplify corporate event planning and delivery, while platforms such as Sessionboard help teams coordinate speakers, submissions and programmes.As well as supporting the acquisition and onboarding of the investor community, allpoints is delivering the mentoring and workshops for the start-ups already on the Ignite programme. The team is helping founders strengthen their propositions and prepare for conversations with investors whose experience spans building, backing, acquiring and exiting businesses.Max Fellows, Founder and CEO of allpoints, said: “We’re discovering some brilliant businesses through the mentoring and workshops. Getting to know these founders and seeing how they’re tackling problems across our industry has been really exciting.“As we work together on their propositions and pitches, that potential becomes clearer. I know our investors will be delighted by what they see. With $4m in potential investment there’s a tremendous opportunity to make connections that help these businesses grow.”Ignite will once again match participating businesses with relevant investors, alongside opportunities to meet customers and commercial partners. Future Stage pitching, the Ignite Lounge and access to the buyer diary will connect founders withthe international industry community attending IBTM World in Barcelona, 17–19 November 2026.Claudia Hall, Exhibition Director, IBTM added, "The quality of the start-ups this year has been excellent, and they represent a real diverse view of the future of the industry. We're already getting really positive feedback from the onboarding, and we know the investors will be delighted with the businesses on show. It looks like a really strong programme."Places on the Ignite programme remain available for now, with interested startups and scale-ups invited to contact the IBTM World team as preparations continue

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Events Have a Currency Problem, Not a Value Problem Featured post
Industry News28-10-26

Events Have a Currency Problem, Not a Value Problem

28th October 26: New, research from the International Corporate Events Network (ICEN) supported by Cvent, has revealed that 79% of corporate event professionals say senior stakeholders recognise the strategic value of events, yet just 13% find budgets easy to approve.The ICEN Corporate Events Benchmarking Report 2026/2027 exposes a significant disconnect between corporate recognition of the value of events and the ability of event professionals to secure investment. It cites that while 79% of respondents rate their senior stakeholders’ belief in the strategic value of events highly, at 4 or 5 out of 5, just 13% describe event budgets as easy to approve.The findings suggest that corporate events are no longer struggling to demonstrate their strategic relevance. Instead, they face a more fundamental challenge: establishing a consistent, credible way of measuring their contribution to wider business performance. The report identifies this as a “currency problem”, with event teams and financial decisionmakers often lacking a shared language through which to assess value, compare performance and justify continued investment.This disconnect is reflected in the objections event professionals face when seeking budget approval. Almost half (45%) say the most common challenge is an inability to measure return on investment (ROI), ahead of concerns around timing, cost cutting and cost per head.At the same time, 54% identify proof that events generate measurable pipeline or revenue as the single most valuable piece of evidence they could use to justify their programmes internally. Yet only 37% say they can clearly evidence pipeline or revenue contribution.The report also exposes a continued reliance on traditional measures of event success. While 83% of respondents measure registrations or attendance, and 81% track post-event satisfaction, just 34% use revenue attribution.The challenge becomes particularly pronounced for organisations delivering larger event portfolios. Among respondents running 30 or fewer events annually, 22% find budgets easy to approve. This falls to just 4% among those managing 60 or more events, despite consistently high levels of senior stakeholder belief.However, the research also identifies practical opportunities to close the gap. Event teams using a documented engagement scoring model rate their ability to evidence pipeline or revenue contribution at an average of 3.71 out of 5, compared with 2.82 among those without a model.Similarly, respondents whose event technology integrates seamlessly with their customer relationship management (CRM) systems rate their pipeline evidence at 3.78, compared with 2.48 for those transferring data manually.Both findings demonstrate statistically significant associations between structured measurement practices and stronger commercial evidence, suggesting that improvements may be achievable through better use of existing data, rather than simply increasing technology investment.Anita Howard, Founder and CEO of ICEN, commented: “The findings reveal a fascinating contradiction. Senior business leaders increasingly recognise that events matter, yet the professionals responsible for delivering them are still struggling to translate that belief into approved budgets.”“The issue isn’t necessarily a lack of confidence in events, but a lack of common currency through which their contribution can be measured and understood. Attendance, engagement and satisfaction all matter, but they don’t always answer the questions being asked by finance teams and business leaders.“What this research shows is that there are practical ways forward. By agreeing common measures, connecting event data with wider business systems and establishing clearer definitions of success, event professionals can begin to make a much stronger case for investment.”The report also highlights the changing demands on corporate event professionals. Budget pressure and cost scrutiny are identified as significant challenges for the next 12 months by 85% of respondents, closely followed by proving ROI and commercial value at 82%.Meanwhile, AI tool literacy and data analysis and ROI reporting are ranked as the two most important skills event professionals believe their roles now require compared with three years ago. Despite this, only 19% report having access to a structured training budget and programme."Event professionals have worked hard to prove the power and value of their work to their senior stakeholders, and senior leaders do believe in it,” commented Felicia Asiedu,Marketing Director, Cvent. “But while belief is high, budget scrutiny continues to be a challenge. What matters now is shared measurement, so ROI is clear. When event technology connects to the CRM, teams are better placed to show how events influence pipeline and revenue. With the right foundations, events can sit alongside every other revenue driving channel in a business’ playbook."The report recommends closer alignment between events, marketing and finance teams, documented engagement scoring, better integration of event and CRM data, and greater investment in measurement skills.Anita concluded: “There is something fundamentally positive in these findings. The strategic importance of corporate events is already widely recognised. The opportunity now is to turn that confidence into a stronger, more consistent business case.“If we can establish a currency for event value that is recognised across events, marketing, sales and finance, we can change the conversation from what events cost to what they contribute.”The Corporate Events Benchmarking Report 2026/2027 is supported by Cvent and draws on research conducted between 3 July and 8 September 2026.

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Manchester Shows up in Style for CHS Debut Featured post
Industry News26-10-26

Manchester Shows up in Style for CHS Debut

26th October 26, Manchester, UK: Organisers of the inaugural CHS Manchester have praised the warmth and collaborative approach. With the show’s host city, exhibitors, and visitors all contributing to a debut that far exceeded expectations, and as the events industry came together at the AO Arena for a packed show, surrounded by a city-wide welcome.From the Manchester Calling welcome at Manchester Central, to the city-wide fringe programme and onto the exhibition floor, the ambition of the event was bought to life last month as Manchester embraced the opportunity to host the CHS community.“CHS Manchester completely blew away our expectations,” commented Emma King, Founder and CEO of CHS Manchester. “The combination of an incredible Hosted Buyer programme, a genuinely interesting and insightful education programme, and the support we received from across Manchester created a busy, productive and energetic show.”With the show bringing together both CHS’s Leeds and Birmingham communities in a new Manchester supershow, exhibitor numbers rose to 52% higher than Leeds 2025 and 43% higher than Birmingham 2025, while the hosted buyer programme more than doubled compared with previous editions.That meant more buyers experiencing Manchester through its venues, people and hospitality, alongside a broader collection of exhibiting products, goods and services. At the same time, the fringe programme and welcome reception gave the community time to get to know the city and each other, bringing conversations and connections into the show before appointments had begun.“The success of CHS Manchester is also testament to the city and its growing profile as one of the country’s most exciting business events destinations,” continued Emma. “Marketing Manchester has been by our side throughout, while the AO Arena provided a dramatic and exciting backdrop that gave the show a real sense of occasion.“We couldn’t be more delighted with how it went. The buyers we hosted loved the opportunity to connect with brilliant people and businesses, and there was a fantastic energy throughout the event. It was a great occasion for CHS and for Manchester. Roll on 2027.”

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“My career’s been built on great relationships”: Jo Austin joins Crowne Plaza Newcastle podcast Featured post
Industry News14-10-26

“My career’s been built on great relationships”: Jo Austin joins Crowne Plaza Newcastle podcast

Jo Austin, Sales Director at Lime Venue Portfolio, joins Crowne Plaza Newcastle – Stephenson Quarter General Manager Paul Borg to discuss the connections that shape careers, win trust and keep people in the events industry.Crowne Plaza Newcastle – Stephenson Quarter has released the latest episode of its Talking People with Paul Borg podcast, featuring Jo Austin, Sales Director at Lime Venue Portfolio.Jo and Paul worked together earlier in their careers at a large Manchester hotel. Reunited for the podcast, they discuss the event that helped shape Paul’s career, why some of Jo’s strongest client relationships began when things went wrong, and the people they have stayed connected with across the industry.“My career’s been built on great relationships, keeping great relationships, working great relationships, working with amazing people,” Jo tells Paul. “And it’s served me incredibly well.”The pair recall delivering the Rugby League Man of Steel Awards at their former hotel. For Paul, who was then a younger events professional, running an event of that scale was a defining opportunity. Jo remembers bringing a relatively new team together to make it happen.“Our industry affords us the opportunity to build amazing relationships,” she says, “and turn customers into friends and colleagues into friends.”Those relationships can become strongest when an event does not go to plan. Jo says her approach is to face a problem, listen to the client and take responsibility for putting things right.“Some of my best relationships and connections have been born out of adversity,” Jo says.Paul shares that focus on the people delivering events. “I’m an operator at heart. I’d still rather be down on the floor moving tables and chairs than sat reading a P&L,” he says. For him, that experience is why the team matters so much when an organiser chooses a venue.“There’s a lot of beautiful stadiums, hotels and venues out there,” he adds. “It’s about the people that run it and the connections, and the team that are on site and how they build that relationship with the client.”The episode continues the podcast’s exploration of the people and career paths behind hospitality and events, with the conversation covering how Jo moved from retail into hospitality, an event in Leeds that led to her meeting Nelson Mandela, and why employers must show young people the range of careers available across the industry to attract future talent.Listen to Jo Austin’s conversation with Paul Borg now via Talking People with Paul Borg.

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Lime Venue Portfolio Strengthens Convention and Exhibition Offering with Liverpool Experience Campus Featured post
Industry News13-10-26

Lime Venue Portfolio Strengthens Convention and Exhibition Offering with Liverpool Experience Campus

Lime Venue Portfolio has announced that Liverpool Experience Campus (LEX) has joined its growing venue portfolio, adding one of the UK’s major convention and exhibition destinations.LEX, formerly ACC Liverpool, is a world-class events campus located on the city’s iconic waterfront, bringing together a conference centre, exhibition centre and M&S Bank Arena under one unified identity.The partnership will complement LEX’s established convention, exhibition and association congress business by generating additional opportunities for its small to medium-sized spaces, particularly for events of between 150 and 300 people on a day delegate rate. As a carbon-neutral venue and a key asset within the Liverpool City Region, LEX brings strong sustainability credentials alongside significant scale and infrastructure. The campus offers extensive exhibition space, purpose-built conference facilities and city-centre connectivity. Its range of rooms also enables small to medium-sized conferences, meetings and corporate events to take place alongside major events elsewhere on the campus, maximising the breadth and flexibility of the venue.Jo Austin, Sales Director at Lime Venue Portfolio, said: “We’re incredibly excited to welcome a major UK convention and exhibition campus of LEX’s calibre to our portfolio, marking another milestone in our growth strategy. It’s a great example of how we can work alongside an established venue team to unlock opportunities across the full breadth of a campus.”Adrian Evans, Director of Sales – Conference & Business Events, LEX added: “Joining Lime Venue Portfolio enables us to connect with a broader network of UK agencies and corporate buyers while retaining our identity and expertise. The partnership will help us create further opportunities across the range of spaces available on our campus, complementing our established programme of major conventions, exhibitions and congresses. We look forward to being part of a portfolio that champions quality, collaboration and exceptional event delivery.”

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Coastal Cruises Poole Celebrates Two Years of Keeping Poole’s Boats Sailing Featured post
Industry News13-10-26

Coastal Cruises Poole Celebrates Two Years of Keeping Poole’s Boats Sailing

From a race against time to a thriving independent business, Coastal Cruises Poole celebrates its second anniversary on 22 October, marking two years of harbour adventures, unforgettable memories and a team effort to protect a much-loved part of Poole’s tourism industry.When Carol Scott learned in 2024 that the Poole operation was facing closure, she knew she had to explore every possible option to save it. Having spent years working alongside the team, she understood what was at stake: jobs, livelihoods and a familiar sight on Poole Quay.What followed was a six-week race to secure the business and prepare for an independent future. From setting up a new company and website to establishing booking systems, supplier accounts, uniforms and signage, there was a seemingly endless list of tasks to complete.Despite the uncertainty, long days and considerable pressure, the management buyout presented an opportunity to protect the team and keep the boats sailing.And so, Coastal Cruises Poole was born.Two years of adventures on the waterSince becoming an independent business, Coastal Cruises Poole has continued to welcome passengers aboard its three vessels, Solent Scene, Island Scene and Fortuna, offering a range of sightseeing cruises and experiences around Poole Harbour and the spectacular Jurassic Coast.From families discovering the harbour and visitors exploring the iconic Old Harry Rocks to friends celebrating special occasions and passengers enjoying food and drink with a stunning coastal backdrop, the boats have continued to create memories for thousands of people.Behind every successful sailing is a dedicated team of captains, crew, office staff and kiosk colleagues. Their work extends far beyond welcoming passengers aboard, encompassing boat maintenance, safety checks, weather monitoring, bookings and the countless details required to keep every trip running smoothly.Reflecting on the past two years, Carol said: “I always knew we had a good team, but these last two years have shown me just how much we can achieve together. There have been challenges along the way, but everyone has pulled together, and I’m incredibly proud of what we have built.”Hard work, teamwork and a few laughsWhile running a cruise business requires dedication and hard work, the Coastal Cruises Poole team has found plenty of opportunities for fun along the way.From friendly office-versus-crew photo competitions and playful teasing between the quay and the wheelhouse to the occasional debate over who should be responsible for sampling suppliers’ products, team spirit has remained an important part of the business.Recently, the team travelled to France aboard Barfleur as a thank-you for their hard work throughout the summer season. The trip included sunshine, food, dolphins and a beautiful sunset, giving everyone the chance to relax and enjoy some time together away from their usual responsibilities.Carol added: “After such a busy summer looking after our passengers, it was lovely to spend time together and enjoy being the passengers for a change. There are certainly a few photographs that will be staying firmly in the team chat!”Thank you for keeping us sailingAs Coastal Cruises Poole celebrates its second birthday, Carol is keen to recognise the passengers, local businesses, suppliers and tourism partners who have supported the company since its launch.Every booking, recommendation, online review and return visit has helped the independent business establish itself and look towards the future.“Two years ago, the future was incredibly uncertain, and there was a lot to learn in a very short space of time,” said Carol. “Looking back now, I’m proud of what we have achieved, but most of all, I’m proud of the people who helped make it happen.“We are also hugely grateful to everyone who has chosen to sail with us, whether for a family day out, a special celebration or simply to enjoy a beautiful afternoon on the water. Your support means a great deal to us.And as a special thank you to our passengers we are offering an amazing 50% discount off all of our sightseeing sailings on Saturday 24th & Sunday 25th October 2026. Visit www.coastalcruisespoole.co.uk quoting Birthday50 in our promo code.“We have plenty of ideas and adventures planned for the future. The team may look slightly nervous whenever I announce that I’ve had a brilliant idea, but I like to think they would be disappointed if I stopped!”As Coastal Cruises Poole enters its third year, the focus remains firmly on delivering memorable experiences, supporting local tourism and continuing to share the beauty of Poole Harbour and the surrounding coastline with visitors and residents alike.Happy second birthday, Coastal Cruises Poole — and here’s to many more years of adventures on the water.

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GES strengthens creative team with new Creative Lead appointment Featured post
Industry News07-10-26

GES strengthens creative team with new Creative Lead appointment

7th October 2026: GES has further strengthened its creative capabilities with the appointment of Francesca Culy as Creative Lead. An anthropology graduate with experience spanning art and marketing, Culy brings a combination of creative thinking, cultural insight and commercial understanding to the newly appointed role.Working alongside GES’s wider creative and design teams, she will coordinate creative projects and contribute to the development of ideas and solutions. The appointment represents another step in GES’s continued focus on creativity as a core part of its client proposition. It follows the appointment of new Creative Director, Penny Banks, in 2025, reflecting the company’s commitment to investing in the people, skills and expertise needed to strengthen its creative output.Penny said: “Creativity has an increasingly important role to play in helping our clients stand out and create experiences that genuinely connect with their audiences. Francesca brings an interesting combination of skills and experience to the team.We have continued to look at how we build the right creative structure and talent, and we’re delighted to welcome her to the team.”Francesca’s previous roles have included a project and marketing coordinator position at an art consultancy in Sydney, Australia. Commenting on her appointment, she said: "I’m really excited to be joining GES and to bring together my experience across creativity, culture and project delivery in a global live events environment. I’m looking forward to exploring how creativity can shape experiences that are more thoughtful, sustainable, and connected to the communities around them, while bringing different perspectives to the work. I’m excited to collaborate with the wider team and see where we can take those ideas.”

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Hilton Puckrup Hall Hotel & Golf Club, Tewkesbury Named Sports Venue of the Year at the Famtastic Awards 2026
04-11-26 Hilton Puckrup Hall Hotel & Golf Club, Tewkesbury Named Sports Venue of the Year at the Famtastic Awards 2026

TEWKESBURY, UK - Hilton Puckrup Hall Hotel & Golf Club, Tewkesbury has been crowned Sports Venue of the Year at the prestigious Famtastic Awards 2026, recognising the venue's outstanding sporting facilities, exceptional event delivery and commitment to guest experience.The Famtastic Awards are uniquely judged by agents and buyers within the events industry, with judges only scoring venues they have personally booked and experienced. This respected peer[1]led approach celebrates venues that consistently deliver excellence, without the influence of marketing budgets or voting campaigns.Set within 140 acres of picturesque Gloucestershire countryside, Hilton Puckrup Hall Hotel & Golf Club, Tewkesbury has established itself as one of the region's most versatile destinations for sports, meetings, events and leisure stays. The award recognises the venue's ability to seamlessly combine sport, hospitality, accommodation and event expertise within a single destination.At the heart of the venue is its renowned 18-hole championship golf course, complemented by mini golf facilities, 15 contemporary meeting and event spaces for up to 180 delegates, 112 guest accommodation, a health club and leisure facilities, extensive outdoor grounds and the award-winning hospitality synonymous with the Hilton brand.Throughout the year, the hotel welcomes a diverse range of sporting and business events, including golf days, sports team stays, conferences, wellness retreats, fundraising events and residential group experiences. Its unique blend of facilities allows organisers to create memorable experiences while benefiting from the convenience of having accommodation, dining, leisure and event spaces all under one roof.A standout example was the recent Hilton Supply Management Golf Day, which brought together sport, networking, corporate hospitality and entertainment in one successful event. The occasion showcased both the quality of the venue's golf facilities and the team's expertise in delivering complex, multi-faceted events.The hotel also regularly hosts cricket, football and rugby teams, alongside corporate meetings, team-building experiences, international group tours, exclusive-use events within its grade II listed Manor House and large-scale social gatherings.Speaking about the award, Ahmet Donmez, general manager, said: “the award reflects the dedication of our entire team and our commitment to delivering exceptional experiences for every guest, whether they are attending a golf day, staying as part of a sports team, hosting a conference or enjoying a leisure break. We are incredibly proud of what makes Hilton Puckrup Hall unique: our ability to combine outstanding sports facilities, beautiful surroundings and world-class hospitality in one destination."Additionally, Leigh-Anne Thombs, sales manager added "we are absolutely delighted to be recognised as Sports Venue of the Year at the Famtastic Awards 2026. This award is particularly meaningful because it is judged by industry professionals who have first-hand experience of our venue and services”Located just minutes from the M5 and within easy reach of Birmingham, Bristol and the Midlands, Hilton Puckrup Hall Hotel & Golf Club, Tewkesbury offers the perfect balance of accessibility and tranquillity. Surrounded by rolling countryside, the venue provides an inspiring setting for sporting events, team-building activities, corporate gatherings and leisure escapes.The Sports Venue of the Year title further cements Hilton Puckrup Hall's reputation as one of the UK's leading destinations for sports hospitality and event experiences, celebrating a year of continued growth, innovation and excellence.

03-11-26 Factory International launches event talent legacy programme for brands and organisers

Factory International will work with organisations hosting major events and brand experiences at the venue to create event management placements for local talent, alongside opportunities to teach and mentor.Factory International has launched a new Event Management & Operations course at Aviva Studios to address industry skills shortages and open doors for residents from Greater Manchester who lack the experience, connections, and opportunities needed to start their careers.The 12-week course will connect emerging talent with work placements on major commercial events and form Factory International’s new event talent legacy programme. It is the latest programme from Factory Academy, the organisation’s free training initiative, which has supported more than 2,000 people since 2018, with 56% progressing into paid work. Factory Academy is working to improve diversity and inclusivity in the creative industries. It was created to open up accessible career pathways into the creative industries and boost creative skills across the region.The course aims to support 15 Greater Manchester residents per intake, with two to three courses planned each year. Open to those who are unemployed or earning below the Real Living Wage, it combines industry-led training, practical projects, mentoring and networking. Participants will also be individually matched with placements on high-profile events, from major brand activations and award ceremonies to international sporting events.Partners can also contribute in ways that reflect their expertise and resources, including guest teaching, mentoring, industry panels and real-world project briefs. Factory Academy will work with each organisation to shape an opportunity that benefits participants while creating meaningful local impact beyond the event itself.Stephanie Williams, Head of Events at Aviva Studios, said: “Manchester has an incredible pool of creative talent, and we’re seeing more agencies open offices here or relocate to the city. As the sector grows, so will the demand for skilled people.“We want Aviva Studios to help nurture that talent and create a pipeline of people with the skills and experience to build successful careers here. By connecting local people with major events, industry expertise and high-quality placements, we can help Manchester’s creative sector continue to thrive.”Participants will learn to work with international brands, respond to creative briefs and develop skills relevant to the planning and delivery of large-scale events and productions.Gary Briggs, Director of Training and Skills at Factory International, said: “Our industry needs new talent, but securing that first meaningful opportunity can be incredibly difficult without experience or established networks.“Major events bring together an extraordinary concentration of knowledge, creativity and technical expertise. Opening up even a small part of that could help someone take their first step into the industry.“Partners benefit too. Bringing different experiences and perspectives into the room can challenge assumptions and help organisations understand how the communities around them view their brands and events.”Factory Academy is now looking for organisations and industry professionals to provide placements, teaching, project briefs, careers sessions and mentoring.

03-11-26 Live Group Wins 2026 Cvent Excellence Award

3rd November, London, UK: Live Group has been named winner of the Events & Sourcing Partner award at the 2026 Cvent Excellence Awards, Europe, the annual awards program that honors standout leaders across the meetings, events, and hospitality industry.Live Group received the recognition following the transformation of Live Group’s venue sourcing service over the past year. Once driven by team expertise the service has grown into a core strategic offering and a significant, fast-growing part of the business.Live Group expanded its venue sourcing with Cvent Supplier Network (CSN) and Venue Directory GRATIS. Enquiry volumes have since multiplied many times over and are still growing month on month. Colleagues across the Venue Sourcing, Client Services, Delivery and Sales teams in the UK and APAC now use the platforms, allowing Live Group to handle much higher demand while connecting more clients with the right venues.For clients, the results have been tangible. Live Group’s approach to sourcing and its strong relationships with venue partners have helped them get more value from their budgets. Customers have also run more events with one significantly increasing its confirmed events over the past year. Live Group maintains a strong conversion rate across enquiries, with clients rating the venue sourcing experience an average of 4.6 out of 5 over a six-month period.“We’re incredibly proud to be recognised as Events & Venue Sourcing Partner of the Year, and grateful to Cvent for the recognition. Over the past year our team has turned venue sourcing into something much bigger: a faster, more transparent service that fits the right venue to the audience and supports every event from the first enquiry through to delivery. This award belongs to a team that has embraced new ways of working and never lost sight of the people at the heart of every event.” – Stephen D. Pickett, Group Managing Director, Live Group

02-11-26 $4m and rising as IBTM Ignite Investors Get First Look at Start-up Businesses

2nd November, IBTM World: IBTM Ignite is bringing a growing pool of $4m in potential investment together with ambitious startup businesses, as its mentoring and workshop programme prepares founders for introductions to investors at IBTM World.Delivered in partnership with specialist consultancy allpoints, Ignite is moving through its onboarding phase, with more investors joining and a greater pot to pitch for. Early work with participating businesses is revealing ideas across the event experience, from live AI interpretation, such as Voicefrom AI, to event operations technology, including KNO Events’ tools for managing budgets, suppliers and logistics.In audience engagement, businesses such as Bridged Media are helping organisers turn interest into registrations and commercial opportunities. Always Friday combines AI agents with event specialists to simplify corporate event planning and delivery, while platforms such as Sessionboard help teams coordinate speakers, submissions and programmes.As well as supporting the acquisition and onboarding of the investor community, allpoints is delivering the mentoring and workshops for the start-ups already on the Ignite programme. The team is helping founders strengthen their propositions and prepare for conversations with investors whose experience spans building, backing, acquiring and exiting businesses.Max Fellows, Founder and CEO of allpoints, said: “We’re discovering some brilliant businesses through the mentoring and workshops. Getting to know these founders and seeing how they’re tackling problems across our industry has been really exciting.“As we work together on their propositions and pitches, that potential becomes clearer. I know our investors will be delighted by what they see. With $4m in potential investment there’s a tremendous opportunity to make connections that help these businesses grow.”Ignite will once again match participating businesses with relevant investors, alongside opportunities to meet customers and commercial partners. Future Stage pitching, the Ignite Lounge and access to the buyer diary will connect founders withthe international industry community attending IBTM World in Barcelona, 17–19 November 2026.Claudia Hall, Exhibition Director, IBTM added, "The quality of the start-ups this year has been excellent, and they represent a real diverse view of the future of the industry. We're already getting really positive feedback from the onboarding, and we know the investors will be delighted with the businesses on show. It looks like a really strong programme."Places on the Ignite programme remain available for now, with interested startups and scale-ups invited to contact the IBTM World team as preparations continue

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