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A NEW BEGINNING
CN explores the new conference and event offering from the Butlin ’ s portfolio and learns first-hand how things have changed
What ’ s the point of having a mind if you won ’ t change it ? We ’ ve heard that a lot over the last few years in various media circles , but it really does ring true . As people , we are forever reinventing ourselves , be that our style , our looks , or even our opinions . So , it stands to reason that businesses can also reinvent themselves , and that is no truer than with Butlin ’ s .
In February 2021 , Blackstone completed its acquisition of Bourne Leisure in a deal reportedly worth £ 3bn . Among Bourne Leisure ’ s portfolio is Butlin ’ s chain , which has invested heavily in revamping its conference and event facilities over the last few years . So , with healthy capital behind them , Butlin ’ s has been able to drive forward its three venues as conference and event destinations .
Butlin ’ s has relaunched its conferences and events offering across all three resorts at Bognor Regis , Skegness and Minehead , with a new team , a new creative approach delivered by a new agency called Front , and a brand-new state-of-the-art venue , Studio 36 . The investment certainly points towards Butlin ’ s wanting to ensure they provide the ultimate location to host an unforgettable event .
Studio 36 is available at all three resorts , and is capable of accommodating 1,600 delegates in numerous seating arrangements from theatre to cabaret style and gala dinners . The venue ’ s team describe it is a “ blank canvas ”, allowing flexibility for organisers to tailor the space to suit the specific conference or event .
Butlin ’ s has built a strong network of contacts in the industry , and the in-house team says it can support booking best-in-class entertainment , decorations to suit the theme of the conference or event , with an array of packages available including restaurant or buffet options to fit dining needs . All three resort locations are easily accessible by car or train , with free on-site parking available , ensuring ease of access for delegates attending .
Then , of course , there is the catering . As we learned in Conference News ’ catering issue in October , choosing the right food for your delegates has never been so important . Butlin ’ s has gone the extra mile and employed chefs who have worked in Michelin-star restaurants .
A new team
Of course , the investment has brought with it a new team . Nick Tipper , who has taken on the role of head of Butlin ’ s Conferences & Events , formerly worked within the resort team at Bognor Regis .
“ With our new proposition we ’ re all about offering clients fun and entertaining conferences and events ,” said Tipper , when asked how Butlin ’ s has reinvented itself as a conference and events destination .
“ We offer everything all in one place . There ’ s a range of venues , activities , variety of food and beverage options which suit all dietary requirements and accommodation at each of the three resorts making the organisation of the event that little bit easier . www . conference-news . co . uk