Business events industry ‘on track for recovery’, say new figures

The meetings and events sector is showing signs of post-pandemic recovery, according to an organisation’s latest figures.

NewcastleGateshead Convention Bureau says the situation is “very encouraging”, with May the highest performing month by confirmed business value for six years.

Bosses also say an influx of June event bookings saw almost 1000 city centre beds filled through the bureau over a two-week period.

Paul Szomoru, director of business events at NewcastleGateshead Initiative, of which NewcastleGateshead Convention Bureau is a part, said: “The figures are testament to the resilience, collaboration and innovation of our team, and each and every venue, ambassador and supplier across the region.

“Having a healthy pipeline of events is crucial to the sustainability of the sector and the recovery and growth of the local visitor economy, by filling our hotels, venues, restaurants and attractions, increasing visitor numbers and spend and supporting jobs across the industry.”

• The NewcastleGateshead Convention Bureau team, pictured above

Recent events include the International Lewy Body Dementia Conference and gatherings by the UK Council for International Student Affairs and the SunnyCon Anime Expo.

Venues included Newcastle United Football Club, the BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art, Newcastle Helix and Crowne Plaza.

Luke Balcombe, Crowne Plaza director of sales and marketing, added: “This has been a trying time for the industry, and it is very encouraging to see the signs of steady recovery.

“The commitment and hard work from NewcastleGateshead Convention Bureau has been admirable, and we have seen the direct result of their collaborative efforts to drive enquiries and to confirm new business.”