Future Focus 2018

We headed off on what turned out to be one of the hottest days of an unusual UK summer to attend the 2nd day of Confex Future Focus. There were over 70 exhibitors in attendance ranging from universities, hotels, venues, recruitment companies, event companies and catering so a broad spectrum well represented.

The conference as the title suggests focused on the future, future tech trends, nurturing the next generation, the venue of the future and inside the mind of the event attendee. It was an ideal conference if you were looking to enter the events and hospitality industry.

We particularly enjoyed the speaker session “Nurturing the next generation”, with David Preston, Lucy Pittaway and Sam North on the panel discussing degree or apprenticeships and the route on offer into the industry. One member of the audience who is currently on an events and hospitality course at Manchester University brought up an interesting point which led to a lively discussion as to why students are expected to volunteer at events with just the promise of expenses paid, while a lot of companies with corporate stands pay untrained event/promotional staff to man their stands? Certainly, something that needs to be addressed.

Confex Future Focus is certainly an exhibition to add to your calendar for next year, enabling you to immerse yourself in a showcase of all the elements that go towards creating a great event.