Following overwhelming feedback from attendees, CHS Birmingham is tackling the subject of AI throughout its return to Birmingham later this year, 28th October, the 5th time it brings the industry together in the city. AI continues to dominate industry dialogue with CHS’s research indicating uncertainty and fear amongst event professionals. This year however, the show has launched a bold new theme: “You + AI – Hype, Hope, or Headache?”, promising conversation, positivity, and honesty. In a world where long term business planning feels impossible, and professionals are wondering if a chatbot can do their job better (or cheaper), CHS Birmingham is creating space for real conversation – led not by tech companies or futurists, but by the events community itself. The show has become one of the industry’s best loved gatherings, known for its human-first approach, its famously generous hosted buyer programme, and an education track that entertains, informs, invigorates and nourishes its guests. “The feedback we’re getting from our community is one of massive opportunity, underpinned with a feeling of insecurity and general jittery-ness right now,” said Emma King, Founder and CEO, CHS Birmingham. “Everyone’s talking about AI, but not everybody has worked out what it means for them. Anything from The Terminator, to being replaced by a bot, or just having a sweet little digital secretary saving them hours of spreadsheet hell. This year we’re not just going to talk about it – we’re going to poke it, question it, and learn from it. That’s the CHS way.” The educational programme will underscore the wider discussion taking place across the show, exploring the impact of AI in the most CHS way possible: direct, practical, entertaining, and relevant. Highlights will Include: Hacks & Apps: A high-speed download of every app, plug-in, and tool that might just save your job (or at least your Monday morning). No gatekeeping, no waffle – just good tech. Human vs Machine: The Debate: One mic. Two sides. Can humans really outthink the machines, or have we already handed over the keys? Town Hall: The Questions: A proper heart-to-heart with the experts. Bring your anxiety, bring your confusion, and bring your voice – everyone gets a say. Security, Regulation, and Legislation: OK, not the sexiest bit. But if you’re planning events with data, delegates, and digital tools, you’ll want to know what you’re legally responsible for. Spoiler: it’s quite a lot. Town Hall: The Answers: The experts return, armed with useful info and actual answers to the questions raised earlier. No fluff, no sidesteps, just clarity. In the meantime, while AI might be the headline, CHS remains a marketplace where business gets done. With a high-class lineup of exhibitors, a beautiful and curated show floor, and a warm, supportive community vibe, CHS Birmingham continues to deliver for event professionals who need to build better, faster, and smarter events. “This is our industry’s moment to not pretend we’ve got it all figured out and start figuring it out together,” Emma concluded. “CHS Birmingham is where that starts, it’s what events are all about.” CHS Birmingham takes place at ICC Birmingham, 28th October 25. For more information, visit: https://hello-chs.com/birmingham/.