20 Apr 2021
April 2021 has arrived – outdoor dining in groups of 6 or 2
households is here, pub gardens can once again be enjoyed, and we can finally
say goodbye to those lockdown locks with a trip to the hairdressers. With the
warmer months on their way we can look forward to picnics in the park, trips to
the beach and… summer events!
You heard us – events are coming back, which means you need
to get your plans underway to make sure that this is the most memorable summer
your business has ever had. A comeback to end all comebacks.
With only 5 weeks until the 17th May, the next
lift of restrictions on the governments roadmap out of lockdown, and 10 weeks
until the 21st June when we are predicted to be returning to what
will be the closest we have been to normality since March 2020, it’s time to
crack down on planning.
Between the 17th May and 21st June, not
only will indoor and outdoor entertainment venues and attractions be permitted
to open, but according to Government guidelines, ‘conference centres and
exhibition halls will also be able to open for conferences, exhibitions,
tradeshows, and private dining and banqueting events’ – this is great news for
businesses planning corporate events. Keep in mind that there will still be a
limit on capacity, with a restriction of 50% of a capacity up to 1,000 for
indoor events, and 50% of up to 4,000 for outdoor events. This restriction on
numbers, in place until 21st June, may push more businesses to
consider the possibility of an outdoor exhibition or conference – here’s hoping
the British weather is on our side!
When planning, we will have to consider things such as
increased sanitation procedures and the potential for pre-entry testing and the
possibility in the future of vaccination verification. Create a contingency
plan for every possible scenario that could occur in the run up to your
post-pandemic event, as these roadmap dates are not set in stone and whilst we
hope for the best, you never know what could change at the last minute.
Why not consider a hybrid event of both virtual and in-person for your next corporate event or conference? The option for virtual attendance will benefit attendees who may live further than others, and so reduce the need for any travelling that could have a negative impact on coronavirus cases increasing. Despite the lift of restrictions, many are likely to be wary about being in closer contact with others and will appreciate the option to return back to normality at their own pace. Why not switch things up by hosting the event outdoors instead of in a conference room? Look at this as an opportunity for innovation and creative solutions.
The KAT team are here for you during these times! For help with planning and managing both live and virtual events, just give us a call on 01206 765544 to chat with a member of our Events team. Read more about the government guidelines on businesses and venues here.