It seems like there is a trend these days for government to make announcements with very little clarity towards events sector. A £42 billion worth events industry that currently provides over 700,000 jobs to a diverse and highly skilled UK-based workforce has once again been left in the sea of confusion.

After the announcement on 23^rd June that conference and exhibition venues are to remain closed, the government guidance has listed in more detail what the public can and can’t do, which includes not gathering in groups of more than 30, according to Conference News. Somehow, it managed to create more questions than answers…

Cinemas and theatres are allowed to reopen, as long as there are no live performances taking place and no cap on numbers has been set. So does this mean a cinema can host presentations for groups larger than 30 people? Does the guidance apply exclusively to conference centres and exhibition venues? If so, can meeting room providers reopen? Can museums host non-conference events of any size?

According to our trusted sources meeting room providers Regus and Spaceworks are open and fully operational, Leonardo Hotels are also open for non-residential meetings and Vue cinemas believe that as long as there are no live performances they will be able to host events from the 4^th July.

MIA, BVEP and all other associations along with every venue, events company and supplier are very disappointed that government once again failed to reference events industry and provide such needed clarity. Hopefully, following the backlash from our community we will be acknowledged in no time and events sector will bloom again.

As ever if you are looking for a Venue Finding service please get in touch. We are a Free service with 25+ years’ experience in all aspects of the conference and events industry. We will save you time and money ! Unlike many of the larger agencies we visit venues almost daily, at least we did so pre lockdown ! We know the venue we recommend !. Plus we take the time to negotiate the best possible rates and terms for our clients, we don’t try to just maximise our turnover. Our business is built upon building long term relationships with out clients ! If you are looking for a dedicated, specialist and professional UK based booking agent, you have found the right agencies.