All Entries Tagged With: "LIVERPOOL"
ACC Liverpool unveils new E.ON Business Centre
Dr Paul Golby, Chief Executive of E.ON UK, officially opened the new E.ON Business Centre at BT Convention Centre, part of ACC Liverpool, yesterday (Tuesday 7th September) demonstrating the growth of E.ON’s relationship with ACC Liverpool since becoming the venue’s energy provider in 2008.
The venue’s Business Centre has been completely refitted and refurnished and is now equipped with a full range of business facilities as well as a new Netpod comprising 14 energy efficient high speed internet desktops, designed to enhance communications and increase productivity for delegates and clients at conferences and exhibitions.
Dr Paul Golby said, “Buildings currently account for over 40% of the UK’s total carbon emissions so it’s really important that homes and businesses up and down the country become more energy efficient.
“ACC Liverpool is a living example of how things can be done, as well as an exciting showcase for others using the facility. We’re proud to lend our support and name to the facility.”
E.ON has assisted ACC Liverpool in its drive to become one of Europe’s most sustainable venues by helping to reduce carbon emissions. ACC Liverpool has laid down a ‘greenprint’ for corporate social responsibility amongst its competitors with ground-breaking design and build and a focus on continually improving its CSR standing in the local, national and international community.
Bob Prattey, CEO of ACC Liverpool said, “Communications is a key word for the meetings and events sector, providing real-time event news, facilitating a ceaseless flow of information and ensuring delegates can respond to their business needs. We are excited by the strengthening of our partnership with E.ON and look forward to seeing the E.ON Business Centre in action as a next generation work station.”
London to Liverpool in 2 Hours (Yes, Really!)
Did you know you can travel to Liverpool from central London in a little over 2 hours?
Virgin Trains offer a direct hourly service aboard their innovative Pendolino trains, ensuring your delegates travel in comfort and arrive stress free. On board benefits include Wi-Fi, mobile signal boosters, handy power sockets and a Quiet Zone for those in need of some ‘me time’.
We all know train travel is far better for the environment, and the Virgin Pendolino trains are amongst the greenest on the tracks, with features such as ‘regenerative breaking’ which actually returns power to the National Grid!
Sporting Excellence
In the run up to 2012, many organisers are looking to add a timely sporting message to their events. As a destination with an outstanding sporting heritage, Liverpool City Region offers an unrivalled range of sports venues and activities to suit events of all sizes.
There are two of the Premiership’s biggest football teams within the city, Liverpool FC and Everton FC, both recognised by fans from across the globe. Liverpool also lies at the heart of England’s Golf Coast, home to three Royal Links courses – Liverpool, Birkdale and Lytham & St Annes – plus numerous other naturally beautiful courses. Fans of horse racing can enjoy the world famous John Smith’s Grand National at Aintree Racecourse and a full calendar of race days at Haydock Park.
For more information on corporate and incentive packages, including match tickets, accommodation and tee times, visit www.incentivesliverpool.com
ACC Liverpool to exhibit at ASAE
World heritage site and home of the Beatles, Liverpool is making a presence for the first time at this year’s ASAE (American Society of Association Executives) Annual Meeting and Exposition in Los Angeles.
ACC Liverpool will be representing the city at ASAE, engaging with American buyers stateside for the first time and marking the start of a sales initiative focusing on the North American market.
ASAE, 21 – 24 August 2010, is targeted at association event professionals and gives a platform to develop and nurture business relationships with venues, organisers and destinations both in the Americas and across the globe.
Home to BT Convention Centre and Echo Arena, ACC Liverpool will be exhibiting with Visit Britain, the UK’s national tourism body. Kerrin MacPhie, Head of Sales for BT Convention Centre will be heading Liverpool’s charge on the USA market and highlighting the attraction of the city as an international conference destination.
Liverpool was awarded European Capital of Culture in 2008 and since then has made a name for itself through awards and high profile events taking place in the city. Subsequently it has resulted in the city being voted as the 2nd best UK city event organisers would choose to host an event outside of London and a place in style savvy travellers’ guide, Condé Nast Traveller.
Built as a green venue, ACC Liverpool is continually improving its sustainable offering and setting the standards for other convention centres to follow. Kerrin will also be sharing her experiences of developing the Global Green Alliance (GGA), an affiliation of likeminded partner convention and exhibition destinations over three continents.
MacPhie commented, “We have, within the last 6 months, had an increased interest from the USA and I am very keen to take Liverpool’s offering to Los Angeles to show the rest of the USA what the north west of England can offer as a conference destination. Within two years of opening, ACC Liverpool has already hosted many international events including some from the USA and I look forward to meeting with more potential buyers who will come over and see Liverpool and all it has to offer.”
ACC Liverpool which hosted this year’s AIPC annual congress welcomed 180 members from 53 countries, of which three convention centres from the USA attended. Attendees, who were predominantly senior level convention centre management, had the opportunity to see Liverpool’s offering for conference delegates and learn best practises from the host convention centre.
ACC Liverpool will be exhibiting on Visit Britain’s stand 1530a.
Liverpool business visitors to help make the city greener
Conference organisers hosting events in Liverpool will be able to compensate for their carbon impact by donating to a range of green projects across the city.
Foundation, a climate fund for the North West, has joined forces with the Liverpool Convention Bureau (LCB) in the city’s first ever partnership to offer organisers the chance to contribute towards local carbon-reduction projects.
Foundation Chief Officer, Mark Turner, explained: “Carbon emissions are unavoidable when it comes to organising and hosting large events such as conferences and we hope that this new scheme will give people the chance to compensate for the environmental impact of their events.
“The way it works is simple: Organisers using the bureau to make their bookings, who are interested in compensating for their carbon, will be asked to contribute £100 for a meeting with up to 100 delegates, ranging through to £1,000 for a big event with more than 800 guests.
“All the money will then be used to fund community projects in the Liverpool city region, such as fitting solar panels and energy efficient boilers in local halls and schools and creating new woodlands,” he added.
Carol O’Reilly, Liverpool Convention Bureau Manager, commented: “We want everyone to recognise Liverpool as an exemplary destination and green credentials are a large part of our appeal.
“The carbon compensation scheme we have launched with Foundation is a real first and something that we feel event organisers will appreciate. Whilst carbon offsetting is not a new concept, carbon compensating is a fresh way of responding and is evolving into a perfect way to encourage low carbon behaviours. Through the Convention Bureau scheme event organisers and individual delegates can work out their own footprint and contribute to local community projects – it’s a great idea.”
Since its launch in April 2009, Foundation has awarded over £140,000 to eight projects across Merseyside and is on target to save 1668 tonnes of Co2 which is the equivalent of heating over 470 homes or powering the Mersey ferries for a year.
Agents get a taste of Liverpool
Twelve of the UK’s key booking agents and buyers arrived in Liverpool on Thursday 8th July, for a two day fam visit hosted by ACC Liverpool, home to BT Convention Centre.
Kerrin MacPhie, Head of Sales, BT Convention Centre Liverpool, commented, “The fam visit was a fantastic opportunity to showcase the regenerated city as a conference destination whilst positioning ACC Liverpool as a prime venue for meetings to a group of influential decision makers in the industry.”
Thank you for the music!
MAMMA MIA! has become the Echo Arena Liverpool’s best selling show since the venue opened in January 2008.
Over 54,000 tickets were sold for the smash hit musical which has been appearing in Liverpool this month for three weeks – the longest performance run that the waterfront venue has hosted to date.
A commemorative plaque has been presented to the cast members who have been in the city as part of a world-wide tour.
The milestone follows the Echo Arena’s win of ‘best performance venue’ at the The Mersey Partnership’s tourism awards earlier this month.
Ian Congdon, Sales Manager of the Echo Arena, said, “The MAMMA MIA! run has been hugely successful and we’re looking forward to welcoming similar events in the future. This demonstrates that Liverpool can host a high profile residency and will help to bring other internationally recognised shows to the city.”
ACC Liverpool lights up for its first ever Christmas party season
Liverpool Docks get the Las Vegas Strip treatment
ACC Liverpool is set to be the centre stage of the North West’s social scene this coming December.
From 10th – 18th December 2010, Liverpool’s landmark venue will be re-styled in a Las Vegas theme for private and company parties. Recognised across the UK and Europe as one of the most prestigious live event venues; ACC Liverpool has hosted global pop stars, televised live awards and delivered the most exacting of technical conferences.
2010’s Christmas season will see creative flair married with meticulous planning and award winning food, all of which ACC is synonymous with. Maximising its in-house team of designers and world class hospitality professionals, ACC Liverpool will create a scene reminiscent of Vegas’s famed ‘Strip’ complete with glitzy neons, vibrant casino action and masterful mixologists.
Bob Prattey, CEO of ACC Liverpool said, “This is the first time that we have targeted the Christmas party market and a move very much driven by demand. People are aware of our ability to put on upscale events and we are fortunate to have some of the most talented people in the events industry who are pulling together their skills to create a night to remember. Not only is this a great opportunity for companies to book a table, or the whole venue, but also for individuals to come and see the venue like never before! The outlook for 2010’s Christmas run is a very different story to last year; this year employers appreciate the need to reward their employees and individual groups are looking for the kind of extravaganza that ACC is synonymous with”.
For more information visit http://www.echoarena.com/whats_on/viva_las_xmas.asp or email the Vegas team at vegas@accliverpool.com.
BT Convention Centre to host BT AGM
Liverpool’s BT Convention Centre, part of Arena and Convention Centre Liverpool (ACC Liverpool), will host the BT Annual General Meeting 2010.
The meeting is set to take place on 22nd July and will be the first AGM that BT has held in Liverpool. Previous BT AGMs have been held in various UK locations ensuring that over the years all shareholders have the opportunity to attend a meeting.
In 2007, the BT Convention Centre was the first purpose-built facility of its kind in the UK to have secured a naming rights deal.
Jacquie Rogers, General Manager of the BT Convention Centre, said, “We are looking forward to hosting the BT AGM and, as our sponsors, they can be sure that we have some of the best technology in place to ensure their AGM is fully equipped and runs smoothly on the day. With BT being one of the largest communications companies in the world, we are fortunate to be associated with them and are delighted to host this important meeting.” BT AGM
Strategic Agenda Drives Record Attendance at AIPC
A conference program focused on developing strategies to address key challenges for today’s convention centres has resulted in what is projected to be the most broadly attended Annual Conference in AIPC history. Close to 100 centres from countries all over the world are expected to attend, which represents a record achievement for the Annual Conference and a highly representative cross-section of the industry world-wide.The program has been organized around the theme “Development, Start to Finish”, as while it is this area more than any other that puts all aspects of planning, design, operations, government relations, economics and major project management into a sharp focus it is at the same time one where fewer centre managers have complete and current knowledge. “While facility development may seem like only a periodic requirement in our business, surveys show that if we combine those members who are in the process of a development or have recently completed one with those who expect they will need to carry out a major project within the next 3-5 years, we are looking at the vast majority. This is clearly an area of major preoccupation for centre managers and therefore a perfect opportunity to achieve the kind of knowledge transfer that addresses AIPC’s mission”.
Sessions will cover everything from keynotes on how macro-economics are impacting government finances and the application of innovation techniques to problem solving by noted economic and globalization commentators Will Hutton and Hamish McRae to very practical topics such as design development, government relations, feasibility studies, economic measurement and major project management. The program will be driven by a recently completed assessment by industry analyst and research expert Michael Hughes of centre managers’ expectations for future needs which will be used to shape the specific topic areas to be addressed.
“We believe this will be something of a landmark approach, and we are delighted to be holding the event in a facility and a destination that exemplify re-invention”, said Hirt. “As a highly attractive and historic city, Liverpool is not only a great backdrop for our delegates but a fine example of how a new state-of-the-art centre can redefine business opportunities for a destination. We expect to find ample illustrations of the principles we will be pursuing in the conference program also reflected in our immediate surroundings”.
Direct link to conference website: 2010 Conference in Liverpool.
Echo Arena Liverpool awarded Performance Venue of the Year
TMP Tourism Awards commend visitor economy businesses
The Mersey Partnership (TMP) Tourism Awards 2010 which took place Thursday 10th June saw Echo Arena Liverpool – part of ACC Liverpool – scoop the award for Performance Venue of the Year.
Organised by the official tourist board for the Liverpool City Region, the awards recognise the very best in quality and excellence in the city region’s visitor economy.
This latest award completes the accolades bestowed on ACC Liverpool in the TMP Tourism Awards, with the BT Convention Centre Liverpool last year scooping Excellence in Business Tourism and the whole business being recognised for Sustainable Tourism in 2009.
This award is another major step in the industry’s recognition of the effect that ACC Liverpool, home to Echo Arena and BT Convention Centre, is having on the city and the region.
Tim Banfield, General Manager of the Echo Arena, said, “We are delighted to win this award. The Echo Arena Liverpool has welcomed some of the country’s most talented comedians and musicians, with the likes of Beyonce, Lady Gaga, Russell Howard and John Bishop all performing recently.
“We’ve staged a number of high profile events including the hugely successful Mamma Mia, Walking with Dinosaurs and the Davis Cup, and there will be many more to come in the future, such as the next MOBO awards ceremony.
“We will continue to work hard to ensure that all visitors to the venue enjoy their time with us. We want to make sure that every night at the Echo Arena Liverpool is one to remember – from the general experience of the atmosphere to the quality of the venue’s facilities.”
Liverpool Convention Bureau to champion decade of sport message
Liverpool Convention Bureau has announced plans to run a campaign aimed at highlighting the city’s sporting heritage and the forthcoming business tourism opportunities ahead of major events such as the 2012 Olympics and the 2014 Open Championship.
With preparation for London 2012 well underway, Liverpool believes that its sporting excellence and credentials as a business tourism destination will place the city in a prime position to win events that have been displaced out of London during the games. While news that Royal Liverpool is to play host to the 2014 Open Championship for the 12th time will further cement the city’s offering and attractiveness.
“Winning the Olympics has heralded the start to the UK’s decade of sporting excellence and a prime opportunity for all of the regions, including Liverpool, to benefit from the prestige and business opportunities that the games will bring;” Comments Simon Mills, Head of Business Visits and Events & Partner Marketing at VisitBritain.
Carol O’Reilly, Liverpool Convention Bureau Manager adds; “The Liverpool City Region is renowned for its cultural and sporting heritage and excellence and we are keen as a destination to capitalise on our own USPs at a time when sporting events take centre stage.
“The campaign will be supported by PR and Marketing and we are also looking into holding an event for our members to help them make the most of the opportunities of associating themselves with the decade of sport message.”
Liverpool unveils green business strategy as new poll reveals green issues still key
According to a recently conducted survey of 2,014 UK adults, more than half (56 per cent) of employed respondents said green issues are important to their company compared with 15 per cent who felt green issues were unimportant in their workplace.
The survey was conducted on behalf of Liverpool Convention Bureau as part of a bid to promote the city as a green business destination and its own green economy.
Companies in the North West and the Midlands took the most note of green issues with 59 per cent agreeing that a green ethos was important to the business they worked for. While more than half of respondents (54 per cent), said it was important that the companies they purchase from have good green credentials. Females were most concerned with the green credentials of companies with 59 per cent saying they were important compared to 49 per cent among males.
Carol O’Reilly, Liverpool Convention Bureau comments; “As a city Liverpool embodies green principles wholeheartedly with carbon emissions per person lower than the national average. There are already 8,000 people employed in the energy and environmental technology sector generating £1bn of value but a fully low carbon economy can generate a further 7,000 jobs by 2015.
“In winning major events, conferences and meetings to Liverpool we have to offer something our competitors don’t and for many, green issues are an important decision in the purchasing process. A number of our venues participate in the green tourism for business scheme and we have also launched a carbon compensating scheme with Foundation for event organisers wanting to contribute to green CSR projects. We were also the first city to have an ISO14001 accredited convention centre in the form of ACC Liverpool.” Concludes Carol.
International meeting planner Wendy Parsley, Founder, Quint Strategies adds; “The decision to host PPI Transport Symposium 18 at the BT Convention Centre was a risky one considering the venue was still under construction when we first visited. I am pleased to say that it turned out to be an excellent choice. As an added bonus, the venue’s green initiatives tied into our goals to create a ‘green’ meeting for our delegates. Nearly all of the hotels we used were within walking distance of the venue.”
AIPC Annual Conference in Liverpool! July 3-7, 2010
Along with AIPC ongoing senior level management updates and issue exchanges, this year’s Annual Conference will feature an executive theme with implications for centre managers everywhere.
Expansions, renovations and new facility development are becoming ongoing functions of a large proportion of convention centre management activity, as rapid changes in the industry generate increasing levels of such activity in order for centres to remain competitive. Yet such programs are often outside the main stream of centre manager’s expertise and those who do obtain direct experience may have little use for it after their own project is complete.
As a result, this year’s AIPC conference will incorporate the concept of “Project Development – Start to Finish”; a comprehensive look at the process of facility development from initial planning through government and community relations and actual project management. The results will be of intense interest not only to members engaged in or contemplating a major project but those who recognize that such projects are an inevitable part of the industry future.
Here’s the direct link to the Program Sessions
Liverpool is a destination rich in history and culture and it’s an amazing, vibrant city which bustles with life, music, sport and culture. Our hosts have prepared an exciting programme of tours for delegates and accompanying persons to enable you to sample the unique charms that Liverpool has to offer. Visit the Annual Conference website now for full details on the Social Program.
This is a conference for the future – and for helping set your course into a new generation of business opportunities.
ACC Liverpool proves green can become gold
Coveted award bestowed on Liverpool landmark
ACC Liverpool, comprising BT Convention Centre and Echo Arena, was recognised for its green credentials at the Exhibition News Awards, 7th May 2010.
Voted for by professional exhibition and event organisers across the world, the Green Award affirms ACC Liverpool’s commitment to evolving its environmental and CSR policies.
The Exhibition News Awards have become recognised as the benchmark for professionalism and best practice in the exhibition industry, testament to this is the 39% increase in entries year on year. The Green Award was one of the most popular award categories as venues recognise the importance and onus that both organisers and visitors place on environmental issues. Last year at the Exhibition News Award, ACC Liverpool was the recipient of the Best Team Award in recognition of its people and uncompromising service standards.
Later in the month, on 25th May, ACC Liverpool will be sharing insights into its green initiatives including the Global Green Alliance at IMEX, the leading trade show for meetings and events.
Jacquie Rogers, General Manager of BT Conventions Centre said, “I am absolutely delighted for ACC Liverpool to have been recognised in this category. We were built in 2008 to have a minimum environmental impact and two years on we are not resting on the laurels of our bricks and mortar; we are still striving for improvement. Our Green Dream Team has been integral to the success in reducing our energy bills by 14% and also helping us achieve Zero to Landfill status. The team’s work has culminated in being recognised by clients, suppliers and peers and we are truly delighted!”
International Harm Reduction Association returns to Liverpool for 21st anniversary conference
ACC Liverpool, home to BT Convention Centre and Echo Arena, is set to help the world renowned International Harm Reduction Association celebrate its 21st anniversary from 25 – 29 April 2010.
The conference, which held its first ever event in Liverpool in April 1990 is returning to the city for a five-day event entitled ‘Harm Reduction 2010 – The Next Generation’.
Professor Gerry Stimson, Executive Director of IHRA said, “Bringing the conference back to Liverpool – its first home – is significant for us as the Mersey region was one of the first places in the UK and the world to formally implement a harm reduction approach to illicit drug use.”
Commencing on 25th April 2010, the convention will be the meeting point for over 1200 delegates from 90 countries who are involved in harm reduction ideas and practices.
Previous IHRA events have been held in destinations including Barcelona, Toronto, New Delhi and Bangkok. Liverpool is the only city in mainland England to have hosted the conference on two separate occasions.
Commenting on the event, Liverpudlian Paddy Costall, MD of the Conference consortium which is the organiser of the IHRA conference said, “We wanted to give delegates an experience similar to that of the first ever conference and ACC Liverpool has helped us achieve precisely that but on a much larger scale. With the city having contributed significantly to the adoption of harm reduction and the importance of its presence within the world, we are proud of Liverpool’s support in hosting IHRA’s prestigious 21st anniversary event.”
Jacquie Rogers, General Manager BT Convention Centre Liverpool said, “We feel privileged to be welcoming such a renowned conference to ACC Liverpool for what looks to be a promising and encouraging event. We are delighted that IHRA has chosen to return to Liverpool on this celebrated occasion and that we have been given this opportunity to support and host. The team at ACC Liverpool looks forward to welcoming all hosts, delegates and press.”
Harm Reduction 2010 “The Next Generation”, the International Harm Reduction Association’s 21st International Conference will take place at BT Convention Centre Liverpool from Sunday April 25 – Thursday April 29, 2010.
The Top Ten to… Cool Liverpool
There is so much to discover in Liverpool that we’ve decided to make it easier for event organisers to unearth those hidden gems that will make their next event memorable. With Liverpool being such a vibrant, bustling location for conferences and events it would be fitting to start off our series with our top ten guide to Cool Liverpool.
Baby Blue and Comedy Central
Located in a beautiful 19th century basement vault, this nightclub offer real atmosphere for private events and is also the place to see the award-winning Comedy Central Comedy Club.
Tate Liverpool
Why not infuse your next event with culture by holding it at the Tate Liverpool. Its location on the Albert Dock also offers a scenic setting.
Chaophraya
An award-winning Thai restaurant that also doubles as a team building location with its inspiring cookery school.
Liverpool Hilton Hotel
With their big budget launch party which included a performance from Sugababes and a celeb guestlist, this £55m waterfront hotel has earned its place on the cool list.
Hard Day’s Night Hotel
You can’t talk about Liverpool, without giving a customary nod to Beatles’ heritage, which this hotel has in abundance. A specially produced piece of Beatles artwork can be found in each one of the hotel’s 110 bedrooms.
Sefton Park Palm House
With traditional English pastimes like Afternoon Tea still being very much in vogue, why not consider some Victorian elegance. Set amongst botanical specimens from all over the world, the double height orangery is perfect for event organisers wanting to bring the outside in.
The Bluecoat
This Grade 1 listed arts centre in the city centre has recently had a major refurbishment and houses a creative community of artists and businesses making it an inspiring location.
Vincent Hotel
Located just outside Liverpool on Southport’s Parisienne boulevard, this boutique hotel exudes cosmopolitan chic and effortless style. Make sure you sample its signature handmade sushi which is carefully prepared from lunchtime by the Vincent’s own Sushi Chef.
Panoramic Liverpool
Want a breathtaking setting that leaves delegates speechless, then look no further than Panoramic Liverpool. This stylish restaurant located in Brook Street is situated on the 34th floor and affords cinematic views over the city coupled with fine dining.
Lunya
For something truly different, try Catalonian Fusion Restaurant and Deli Lunya located in the Liverpool One shopping complex. Catalan and Spanish dishes and ingredients are fused with ingredients and dishes from the UK to produce signature dishes as tortilla de scouse, Catalan spiced potted Southport Bay shrimp, scouse with morcilla and chorizo and croquetas with oxtail and horseradish mousse.
Hopefully this has sparked some debate on Cool Liverpool and we hope to have given you some food for thought courtesy of Liverpool Convention Bureau.
Echo Arena Liverpool becomes the first events arena to launch mobile app for iPhone
Echo Arena Liverpool, part of ACC Liverpool, has become the first events arena in the UK to launch an app for the iPhone. The application which is free to download on iTunes allows users easy access to the arena’s forthcoming events, ticket availability and prices.
The option for a quick link to the website enables online bookings to be made as well as a direct ‘call box office’ function for convenience. The GPS tracking feature will assist visitors in finding the arena and also give directions to nearby train and bus stations.
Tim Banfield, General Manager Echo Arena said, “We are very excited to be the first arena in the UK to have produced an iPhone app. Our aim is to make our visitor’s experience in searching, booking and arriving as simple as possible. We are confident that the app will contribute to bringing more business to Echo Arena and the city of Liverpool.
“With an active Twitter and Facebook presence we wanted to continue to engage with our customers on the technological front and offer them the convenience of instantly searching and booking events for the Echo Arena directly from their mobile phone.”
The iPhone app enhances the Echo Arena’s product offering for visitors, firmly putting the venue on the map and setting the benchmark for others. This is version 1 of the application – a second version is already in development which will include further features to help spread the word about the arena’s programme of events.
To download the app for free, log on to the iTunes App Store and search for ‘Echo Arena’.
Liverpool Convention Bureau to launch series of Top Ten Guides to the city
As part of a focus on helping event organisers unearth the wealth of venues and restaurants in the city, Liverpool Convention Bureau is to launch a series of top ten guides, which will be hosted on its website www.visitliverpool.com/conferences
The top ten guides will encompass the best of what Liverpool has to offer under the headings of; Green Liverpool, Historic Liverpool, Sporting Liverpool, Incentive Liverpool, Culture Liverpool, Unique Liverpool, Extender Liverpool, Meet Liverpool and Expert Liverpool with Cool Liverpool being the first focus for the team.
“Liverpool has so much to offer event organisers, especially considering the wealth of new hotels, venues and refurbishments that have come on board over the last few years – keeping track of what’s available can be difficult;” comments Carol O’Reilly, Liverpool Convention Bureau.
“The guides will by no means be exhaustive, but we hope they will provide anyone wanting to book an event in Liverpool a flavour of the city and a great starting point.”
ACC Liverpool to showcase Global Green Alliance at IMEX
ACC Liverpool, home to BT Convention Centre and Echo Arena, will be showcasing its internationally recognised conference and meetings facilities at this year’s IMEX in Frankfurt, 25 – 27 May.
Kerrin MacPhie, Head of Sales for BT Convention Centre, will also take to the stage at the show sharing the best practice initiatives of the Global Green Alliance between Cape Town International Convention Centre, Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre and Arena and Convention Centre Liverpool.
Rapidly becoming a globally recognised name within the conference and events industry, ACC Liverpool has a proven record in attracting high profile national and international business and association events; the coming months will see ACC Liverpool welcome the International Harm Reduction Society, the British Dental Association and AIPC Annual Conference.
Based on Visit Britain pavilion number F360, ACC Liverpool will showcase their meeting and conference facilities as well as their prominent location within the city of Liverpool to event professionals from over 150 countries. Backed by prestigious industry awards and commendations; unsurpassed green credentials, advanced levels of technology and Liverpool’s globally recognised personality have proved to be clinching factors considered by event organisers.
Jacquie Rogers, General Manager BT Convention Centre Liverpool, said, ‘We are really looking forward to IMEX this year and are even more thrilled to be speaking. I credit Kerrin on her hard work in creating the Global Green Alliance and IMEX will offer the perfect opportunity to present the initiatives and benefits of the Alliance as well as the accomplished facilities of ACC Liverpool to a leading international audience.”
ACC Liverpool takes up baton as leading convention centre
ACC Liverpool and Liverpool Convention Bureau hosted an upscale dinner with a group of prestigious international event organisers on Wednesday in Geneva.
The event reflects both the venue and the destination’s pull in the international corporate and association markets. Hosted by Head of Sales Kerrin MacPhie, guests included European Society for Dermatological Research, International Road Federation, and European College of Gerodontology.
After a private dinner hosted by Kerrin and the Liverpool Convention Bureau, guests enjoyed a concert by world renowned Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra in Geneva’s celebrated Rococo style Victoria Hall. Guests then enjoyed a private audience with Principal Conductor Vasily Petrenko who is widely recognised as one of the exceptional musicians of his generation.
International Baccalaureate, who attended the evening, used the opportunity to sign their contract for their 3 day regional event set to be held at ACC Liverpool in September 2010 for 750 delegates from over 80 countries. The International Baccalaureate Africa, Europe & Middle East regional conference is a unique forum that will draw together the ideas and creativity of educators from a diverse range of countries and cultures.
Kerrin MacPhie said, “Geneva is recognised as being Europe’s centre for PCOs, hence it made sense for us to capitalise on this visit from the Liverpool Royal Philharmonic Orchestra. Both the Orchestra and our venue represent the very best that the city has to offer to business and leisure travellers and we are delighted with the feedback from our guests!”
Acc Liverpool will continue its global presence by attending IMEX Frankfurt in May 2010.
ACC Liverpool awarded ISO 14001 status
Convention centre given recognition for environmental management system
ACC Liverpool, home to BT Convention Centre and Echo Arena, has again boosted its status as one of the world’s leading convention centres by adding ISO 14001 to its exemplary set of green credentials. Achieving ISO 14001 accreditation means the venue is now part of an elite collective within Europe.
The ISO 14001 represents a series of international standards on environmental management and applies to those environmental aspects which an organisation, such as ACC Liverpool, has control over and can be expected to influence. The ISO 14001 mark will be regularly monitored and built upon with the venue being audited by the United Registrar of Systems (URS) every 12 months and internal audits throughout the year.
ACC Liverpool’s social responsibilities are overseen by the in-house Green Dream Team, driving the venue’s achievement ‘zero waste to landfill’ status as of 1st October 2009. In addition, an Energy Saving Task force has reduced the energy used across the organisation by contributing to significant changes including changing the lighting throughout the building in order to save energy. This collection of initiatives confirms ACC Liverpool’s commitment to implementing strategies to help protect the environment.
Jacquie Rogers, General Manager, BT Convention Centre Liverpool, said: “ACC Liverpool has achieved this accreditation for its environmental management system and we are proud to continue setting the pace for other venues in the industry. This clearly differentiates us from other convention centres and reaffirms our exacting commitment to sustainable events, all in just over 2 years of operation.”
ACC Liverpool is recognised across the world as the epitome of event excellence and has gained a number of awards to endorse this. Recent awards include: Green Tourism Business Scheme – Gold, Best CSR Initiative for Confex 2009, Winner of Sustainable Tourism – North West Tourism Awards and a BREEAM rating of ‘very good’.
Brewer Gets The Knowledge
Molson Coors (UK), the global family brewer, hosted its 2010 national conference in Liverpool because of a recommendation from… a number of local cab drivers.
Corporate business booms for BT Convention Centre Liverpool
Corporate demand for BT Convention Centre Liverpool is buoyant, according to Head of Sales, Kerrin MacPhie. The BT Convention Centre, part of ACC Liverpool, has – within the last 4 months – hosted 13 corporate events, bringing through it doors over 9,000 delegates reflecting an increase in demand from corporate organisations of 140% year on year.
2010 has already seen conferences, exhibitions and staff events from Lyreco, Molson Coors and Bunzl being hosted at the North West landmark venue.
These globally recognised names have seen the benefit of Liverpool as a conference destination and have invested their trust in BT Convention Centre Liverpool after just only 2 years in operation. The city’s transport links, its people and location within the UK have made the venue an appealing choice for organisations wanting to hold large scale events.
Whilst the demand has increased, lead in time for events has retracted allowing many of the events to capitalise on BT Convention Centre Liverpool’s shoulder days.
Kerrin MacPhie said: “We have noted a change in business patterns as FTSE-100 companies and other large corporates consolidate their traditional programme of events into one all encompassing event. Traditionally they would have looked for various mid-sized venues across the UK; however they are now opting for one upscale venue at the heart of the UK’s infrastructure”.
BT Convention Centre Liverpool’s demand is reflected in feedback from the UK’s leading association for venue finding agencies who have seen a five fold increase in demand. The HBAA noticed that business confirmed in January, transacting in the future, is up 39% compared to January 2009 with event sizes which seem to have increased.
BT Convention Centre Liverpool has strived hard to create a team that marries the demands of today’s meeting planner with the personality for which ACC Liverpool has become synonymous with.
ACC Liverpool hosts ABPCO conference for influential conference organisers
The city of Liverpool and host venue BT Convention Centre, part of ACC Liverpool, last week hosted the prestigious Association of British Professional Conference Organisers Annual Conference, 21-23 January 2010.
Titled ‘Change Matters’, the three-day conference which drew over 50 high-profile conference and event organisers looked at how professional organisers could maximise their events in the current climate. The event shared best practices and included case studies from ACC Liverpool’s Chief Executive Bob Prattey. Explaining the conception and development of ACC Liverpool, Bob illustrated how the venue has consolidated its position as one of the UK’s leading conference and live events spaces in just under two years of operation.
BT Convention Centre Liverpool has increasingly become a venue of choice for professional conference, meeting and event planners drawn to the vibrancy of a resurgent city and, particularly, the venue’s exacting operating procedures and award winning sustainability policies.
Jacquie Rogers, General Manager of the BT Convention Centre Liverpool said: “As the host venue for the ABPCO Annual Conference we had the ideal opportunity to showcase our world-class facilities to professional conference organisers and decision makers in the industry.”
ACC Liverpool gets the green light on ‘Zero to Landfill’
ACC Liverpool has announced the addition of ‘Zero to Landfill’ status to its exacting and respected sustainability charter.
The achievement of ‘Zero to Landfill’ for the venue has been fast-tracked by ACC’s Green Dream Team; the venue’s own swat team of committed staff and service partners who meet monthly to hothouse ideas that will make the venue greener and cleaner. Whilst 2009’s target for waste sent to landfill had been set at 25%, ACC’s Green Dream Team have exceeded expectations, securing the ‘Zero to Landfill’ status. ACC Liverpool is one of only a few of such arenas and convention centers in the world.
Host to many of Europe’s leading conferences, exhibitions and live performances, ACC was designed to produce half the CO2 emissions it would without any environmentally-friendly measures implemented and to use 20% less electricity.
Just 22 months since opening, the tireless enthusiasm of the Green Dream Team continues in areas including recycling, waste management and energy efficiency. Testament to the team’s work are recent accolades including Conference & Incentive Travel Magazine’s ‘Best Sustainable Venue’ and Northwest Regional Development Agency’s ‘Sustainable Tourism’.
New practices at ACC Liverpool to enable the ‘Zero to Landfill’ status include:
· Working with local Widnes power station, PDM. All food waste from ACC Liverpool is transported to the power station where it is mulched to form a homogenous purée. The puree is then injected into boilers and incinerated at 1,000C, thereby creating steam to power a turbine to generate electricity.
· Waste from exhibitions and conferences is sent to Orchid Environmental where raw unsorted waste enters the plant and is sorted and ready to re-use, or reprocessed into diesel biofuel.
BT Convention Centre and Echo Arena, part of ACC Liverpool, are hosts to leading live events including the Davis Cup and the TUC Congress as well as high profile live concerts. The venue has hosted over 450 events since it opened in 2008 with over 1,170,000 visitors.
Bob Prattey, ACC Liverpool’s CEO said: “From the day that we opened we have been tireless in our environmental work – 2009 was set to be the year that we achieved 25% waste to landfill. The fact that we have superseded this is a reflection of the very dedicated team we have working on our green initiatives and the importance we place on the topic.”
Leading global communications company to meet at ACC Liverpool
MCI, the foremost global association, communication and event management company, have chosen to bring their prestigious management board meeting to Liverpool in 2010.
The award winning ACC Liverpool, comprising BT Convention Centre and Echo Arena, will be the backdrop for the noteworthy event in April 2010. The two day event will draw together leading conference and event figureheads and decision-makers from MCI’s global offices.
Following in the footsteps of other previous host locations (Monaco, Montreal, Paris and Amsterdam) ACC Liverpool will be given a platform to present the city of Liverpool as a key business travel destination for meeting and event planners. Already voted 3rd as the ‘city Conde Nast Traveller’s readers would like to visit for a short break’, ACC Liverpool also sits in 86th position of worldwide top conference destinations according to ICCA (International Congress and Convention Association) rankings.
ACC Liverpool was chosen not only for its world class event facilities, but also for its location and accessibility from major European airports.
Erica Fawer, Director of Event Operations for MCI commented: “We wanted to experience more of the UK and have heard great things about Liverpool as an up-and-coming conference destination and cultural hub. The team at ACC Liverpool have been more than welcoming and have covered every angle possible to make our experience of Liverpool a success.”
Kerrin MacPhie, Head of Sales for BT Convention Centre Liverpool said, “We feel privileged to be welcoming MCI next year, as we can demonstrate what we can do as a conference and event venue and also capitalise on what the city has to offer for in-bound delegates. We are delighted that we have outrun the more traditional UK destinations and have been given this opportunity to spread the appeal of Liverpool.”
ACC Liverpool heads back to EIBTM
Show’s technology theme is reflected in prestigious venue
The constant demand by international businesses bringing their congresses to the UK’s Northwest has ensured ACC Liverpool’s continued participation at renowned business forum for the international travel and meeting industry, EIBTM 2009.
EIBTM’s theme ‘technology’ and ACC Liverpool go hand in hand; Liverpool being recognised by economists and businesses as Europe’s second largest media hub and one of the world’s biggest centres for the development of software for the online gaming sector. Completed in 2008, ACC Liverpool, comprising the BT Convention Centre and Echo Arena, is one of the most technologically advanced venues to be built in Europe; a pinnacle in the rejuvenated city.
Liverpool’s increased popularity amongst conference and event organisers can be attributed not only to the purpose-built ACC Liverpool but also the huge local pride and determination to show off the city as a destination.
This year’s theme at EIBTM of science, technology and innovation reflects Liverpool’s established links within the creative, innovative and scientific industries. Home to three world-class universities, two dedicated science parks and world-class research departments including infection & immunology, cancer studies, computer science and, mechanical, aeronautical & manufacturing engineering; Liverpool really does have its finger on the pulse in terms of research, innovation and technology.
ACC Liverpool will be exhibiting on stand G120 at EIBTM 2009 from 1 to 3 December at The Fira Gran Via venue in Barcelona, Spain.
Fast facts:
Bedroom stock of 3000 rooms within walking distance
ACC Liverpool can be secured as a high security campus, ideal for high profile political delegations
ACC Liverpool is one of the greenest venues in Europe thanks to specialist design features from wind turbines to rainwater harvesting, which ensure it produces half the CO2 emissions it would normally.
The BT Convention Centre; 1,350 seats, a 3,725 sq metre multi-purpose hall and 18 further meeting rooms. Total exhibition space is in excess of 7,000 sq metres
The Echo Arena; capacity of 11,000
Liverpool ‘top of the class’ with corporate and association market
BT Convention Centre learns of new wins in education sector
For the first time ever, the International Society for the Scholarship of Teaching & Learning (ISSOTL) will be holding its conference in Europe. Liverpool has been chosen as the host destination for 2010 which represents a major coup for the city and the country as previous events have been held in America, Canada and Australia. The ISSOTL conference will bring over 500 delegates to the BT Convention Centre and city for three nights.
Fiona Smith, who helped arrange the ISSOTL conference, said: “We really can’t wait for a fresh new conference destination. As this conference has not been to Europe before, bringing it to the UK is an opportunity for the international academic community to sample British hospitality and see Liverpool at its best.”
Following suit is the National Union of Teachers (NUT), which is holding its annual conference at the BT Convention Centre Liverpool for the first time. Taking place in April 2010, the five-day event will draw more than 1,500 teachers, government officials and media. The large size of the delegation and length of their stay will have a positive impact on the city, which is estimated to reach £2m.
Testament to BT Convention Centre Liverpool’s quality of service and product is the announcement that the National Association of Head Teachers (NAHT) will be returning in 2010, following a successful event in 2008. Over 500 members of the NAHT will return to the BT Convention Centre Liverpool for their two-day conference and exhibition.
Equally impressed with the venue is the Association of Teachers and Lecturers. Having held its annual four-day event for 500 in early 2009, it has contracted both 2011 and 2013 events, confirming the venue’s noted status amongst professional conference and event organisers.
Jacquie Rogers, General Manager said: “We are extremely pleased to welcome such a influential group of educational clients to the BT Convention Centre, part of ACC Liverpool. The clients who are coming to us are a reflection of the commitment that we have to surpass expectations and really drive Liverpool forward as the UK’s pre-eminent destination for meetings, events and exhibitions.”
