National Outdoor Events Association CEO Susan Tanner outlines what the organisation ’ s ongoing # BuildBackBetter strategy means for the industry

Building a brighter future for events

On the face of it , the main theme for NOEA will be a continuation of our # BuildBackBetter strategy . This encompasses a whole lot more , specifically as we look towards trends that are unique to 2023 .

It ’ s worth firstly reflecting on what # BuildBackBetter really represents . It began during the pandemic and was part of our own projection for the industry ’ s future ; the massive threat that it was under . As we looked at the dire financial implications that many faced , we also wanted to ensure that we kept an eye on the long term stability of the industry ; were we fit for purpose in the long run , were we able to put the right protection in place in the face of future pandemic threats , and how were we able to present the event industry as a place that is desirable to work , and that could attract and keep the best talent .

As we look towards 2023 . all these issues are in play . Despite the financial pressures that continue to plague event businesses , it ’ s perhaps fitting that the main focus for us will continue to be resource ; people and materials . We are encouraging

businesses that have supplied important structural materials to the industry in the past , many of which left the industry during the pandemic , back into events . We see it as our responsibility to show the events industry as a place where they can once again earn a good living while offering quality to a growing industry .

The other resource is people , and we also face a major issue here . For us , this is about showing the events industry as more stable for those looking for rewarding careers . We ’ re working with the event industry ’ s Event Apprenticeship programme to encourage more training opportunities across the sector . This is a vital part of promoting careers as well as jobs .

Finally , even though the pandemic is now in the past , we have to acknowledge that the recovery

Susan Tanner

debts are still being paid back , and that the cost-of-living crisis , inflation , and soaring energy prices are all putting unreasonable fiscal pressures on businesses across the industry . NOEA has never been in a stronger position to both represent and defend our members in front of business and government through what could be another tough year .

At the same time though , we must acknowledge the incredible news that we are up and running again . We celebrated , at the end of last year , the very best of events at our Annual Convention & Awards , and it was incredible to see the quality of what we do shining though again .

2023 represents another year of spectacular events from some of the best creative minds in the global events industry . We should look forward to it in the spirit of our continual aim of building back better .