Logistics normally we seem to be last rung on the ladder . After all , if there were no logistics companies how would you get your products and exhibits to the show on time ?
IELA is truly a global association , bringing together the world of specialist logistics companies who can arrange the shipping to any event worldwide . Wherever you have an event you can be sure an IELA member can assist .
General contractors can arrange shipping from point A to point B , but IELA members can do from A to B to C , and back again , and even more complex requirements , depending on the brief
Garcia Newell
Challenge of recruitment The pandemic was a big blow for our industry . A key number of people who had been in the industry for many years , for one reason or another during the pandemic either stopped doing exhibitions altogether or took jobs with general transport companies and never came back . This has created a huge void in our sector . Replacing those who have departed has been very hard for many , and it has been especially trying to find experienced people to fill the void .
We need , like many other sectors of the industry , to invest in bringing young talent to our industry , and when we get them , invest in training and education .
IELA has recently released the IELA Academy and has for a number of years run our Winter seminar , that supports the education of our members .
I would really like for our sector of the industry to connect with universities in order to let younger people know much more about having a career as an event logistics contractor .
You can build a good career in event logistics . I started as a 17-yearold and although it can be hard work , I would not change that career choice .
I started my career handling shows in the UK and Europe , then progressed to other global locations ; but I never forgot the grounding and education I had from these earlier events . There is a lot to learn ; however , there are also a lot of perks , including travelling and experiencing other countries and cultures .
This business can lead you to understand more about trade and the nuances of different forms of shipping .
And , of course , it is face to face and brings you into direct and close contact with your customer .
I would never consider going back to general logistics . The exciting thing in events is the mix . One minute you could be at your desk doing quotes , the next working overseas at an event .
Sustainability The logistics industry does absolutely recognise that it needs to do more in reducing the carbon emissions created by vehicle transport and forklift handling onsite .
IELA has been a major contributor to the Net Zero Carbon Events logistics workstream . Also we have a focused sustainability working group .
In December 2023 our Associations Day focused on celebrating sustainable practices within the events industry .
Our customers are now expecting their logistics contractors to provide sustainable methods and work with them as stakeholders .
ESG and sustainability must be more than just a buzzword or seen as way of winning new business ; I truly believe you have to care about our planet .
Many in our business are are investing in environmentally friendly vehicles , such as HVO or electric .
Sustainability is not a race but about doing what you can , however little .
Technology The event logistics industry has made great advances in operational and customer facing technology , this enables a greater level or service deliverability and smoother site operation .
Hopes for the future ? I believe IELA and our membership will grow even stronger and will no longer be perceived as a nonimportant contractor . I always see logistics as the key emergency service to enable exhibitions and events to work .
Best thing about working in event logistics ? It has to be listening to a customer ’ s requirement and delivering the very best service according to their wishes .
Making our customers happy , has been a key reason for my staying in the industry .
EW
www . exhibitionworld . co . uk Issue 2 2024 21