Business Events Africa - Vol 40 No 01

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Voice of the Business Events Industry in Africa Vol 40 No 1 January 2020

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Business Events Africa: Serving the business events industry for 40 years

CONTENTS

VOL

40 NO 1

JANUARY 2020

16

About the cover

Indaba Hotel Spa and

Conference Centre

Just north of the fast-paced

business world of Sandton,

in the upmarket residential

suburb of Fourways, lies the

258-bedroom Indaba Hotel, Spa and

Conference Centre. It is a compelling

blend of business-like convenience and

efficiency, with a relaxed and warm

country atmosphere.

Venue with a view

16 FANCOURT: UNDERSTATED LUXURY AND BEAUTY

Located just outside George on South Africa’s Garden Route, overlooked

by the majestic Outeniqua Mountains and surrounded by 613 hectares

of pristine countryside, striking landscapes and a staggering coastline,

Fancourt’s beautiful setting is the perfect place to mix business and

pleasure.

18 TAKING CARE OF BUSINESS HAS NEVER BEEN THIS

BREATHTAKING

Umthunzi Hotel & Conference is an award winning, uniquely affordable,

luxury venue that welcomes leisure guests, business delegates, events and

wedding parties. It is perfectly positioned on the beautiful South Coast,

one of the finest and most recreational coastlines in South Africa, in the

leafy suburb of Umtentweni, near the bustling town of Port Shepstone,

overlooking the Indian Ocean.

18

The authority on meetings,

exhibitions, special events and

incentives management

23

Features

4 Editor’s comment

Where to draw the line?

5 News

ICCA Africa on growing business

events in Africa.

13 Personality profile

Projeni Pather,

managing director of

Exposure Marketing

and chairperson

of Association of

African Exhibition

Organisers (AAXO):

Be open to change.

14 Market news

The CTICC: shaping tomorrow,

today.

20 Venue news

River Place Lodge joins Guvon

Signature Collection.

21 Expo news

Flight Centre Travel Group’s

annual Travel Expo goes national

in 2020.

22 Tech watch

Social media trends for 2020.

23 Venue news

Tsogo Sun Hotels says hi to an

out-of-the-ordinary new brand.

24 Company news

GL events South Africa – think

people, think green and

think local.

South Africa National

Convention Bureau

Business Events Africa, in partnership

with the South Africa National

Convention Bureau, continues to

run a series of supplements. In this

supplement we look at Meetings

Africa 2020, Africa’s premier business

events trade show.


9

26 A local perspective

Robust business interruption

strategies in turbulent times.

27 Event Greening Forum news

Looking ahead: The Event

Greening Forum in 2020.

28 SAACI news

Embracing the new decade.

29 EXSA news

Trending for 2020: What can we

expect in creativity and design?

30 AAXO news

Education and training are at the

core of AAXO’s focus for 2020.

31 SITE news

SITE Southern Africa chapter

goes continental.

32 Index of advertisers.

33 Calendar.

34 Directory & associations

of interest to the industry.

36 Last word

Africa: Business events outlook

towards 2020.

THEME: SHARED ECONOMIES

When shared minds come together, we advance Africa

24 FEBRUARY 2020: BONDAY

25-26 FEBRUARY 2020:

EXHIBITION

SANDTON CONVENTION CENTRE

JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA

www.meetingsafrica.co.za

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(Reg No. 1981/011920/07)

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MANAGING DIRECTOR: Malcolm King

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EDITOR: Irene Costa

gomesi@iafrica.com

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gomesi@iafrica.com

PUBLICATION DETAILS:

Volume 40 No 1

Business Events Africa has 12 issues a year

and is published monthly, with the Yearbook

in June.

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Official media partner

Official Journal of the Southern

Africa Chapter of the Society for

Incentive Travel Excellence

aax o

Official journal of the

Exhibition & Event Association

of Southern Africa


EDITOR’S COMMENT

Where to

draw the line?

As we start a new year, we

look forward to a new

chapter. Many of us start

with new year’s resolutions. It isn’t

something I do personally, but I think

this is the year I should start.

Let me clarify: my new year’s resolutions

will be more of a personal work goal.

In our industry, we often find ourselves

in positions where saying ‘no’ can be

difficult – most of us go out of our way

to always make things happen. The

‘people pleaser’ characteristic really

makes it difficult to sometimes step

back and say ‘no’ when necessary.

Don’t get me wrong, this year I will still

go out of my way to exceed expectations

but with one difference. It must be

within reason, and I need to learn when

it is necessary to decline a request.

The fact is, we all have our own

limits. Drawing the line every now and

again is vital for work and personal life

balance, as well as our stress levels.

We already work in a very stressful

environment with crazy deadlines.

Putting in a system where you know

your own capabilities and sticking to

the markers will make the working

environment a lot more relaxed.

2020 can be whatever we want it to be.

When I think of ‘drawing the line’ I

think of a character from my childhood

– the La Linea cartoon. I’m not sure how

many of you remember this character?

La Linea, aka Mr. Line, is a beloved

and deceptively simple cartoon character

drawn with a single unbroken line.

The line takes on human form, and

Mr. Line’s a cool guy who throws

himself into whatever he’s doing.

No matter what he manages to get up

to in two or three minutes of an episode,

it’s determined that he’ll eventually butt up

against the limitations of his lineal reality.

When ‘la linea’ bumps up against an

obstacle, he calls upon the godlike hand

of the animator to make things right.

We can all be like ‘La Linea’, as

long as we know our own limitations

and when to ask for assistance.

2020 will no doubt be a year with some

interesting challenges, but one thing I know

is that our sector is resilient, and no matter

what comes our way we always throw

ourselves into whatever needs to be done.

Just remember that you are

only human, and it is okay every

now and again to say ‘no’.

Something I’m still learning.

Irene

Email: gomesi@iafrica.com

Credit: Hein Liebetrau

NEWS

ICCA Africa on growing

business events in Africa

The ICCA Africa Regional Office

opened in January 2016 to

provide greater levels of services

and support to members in Africa.

Esmaré Steinhöfel, Regional

Director: Africa, International

Congress and Convention

Association (ICCA) recently shared

with Business Events Africa an

update on the ICCA Africa chapter.

Current membership in Africa

is at 42, with 1 119 members

globally, representing suppliers

in the destination marketing, venue,

meeting support, meetings management

and transport sectors. Membership is

represented in nine African countries in

Southern and East Africa: Ethiopia, Kenya,

Mozambique, Rwanda, South Africa,

Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia and Zimbabwe.

Besides providing support to members

in Africa, another key objective of the

Africa Regional Office is to do advocacy

around the important role that association

meetings play and the economic outcomes

they can deliver to a city or country.

Various ICCA members have organised

workshops for local industry role-players to

educate the market. In 2018 for example,

the Tanzania Tourist Board hosted the

Tanzania MICE & Business Tourism

Masterclass in Dar es Salaam and Arusha.

The Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife &

Antiquities Uganda, while in the process

of establishing the Uganda Convention

Bureau, also engaged with industry where

the ICCA Africa Regional Office presented

on the association market segment.

A highlight in 2019 on the ICCA Events

calendar was the Association Meetings

Programme (AMP) that was hosted in

Africa for the first time in Durban, South

Africa, from 18 – 20 June with record

attendance from ICCA Africa members.

Looking at 2020 and beyond

The 2nd ICCA Meetings Africa Association

Day will take place on Monday, 24 February

as part of the Meetings Africa BONDAY

programme. The event is designed for ICCA

Africa members as an educational seminar

and to formally network with Association

Hosted buyers attending Meetings Africa.

A new event for the Africa region, the

ICCA Africa Summit, will be launched in

the 2nd half of 2020. The Summit will

be a platform for the Africa members

to meet, network and discuss topics of

common interest to pave the way for

member-to-member collaboration.

On the international ICCA Events

calendar are two key events: the

Association Meetings Programme (AMP)

that will take place in Tirol from 29 June-1

July, and the 59th ICCA Congress taking

place in Kaohsiung, Chinese Taipei from

1-4 November 2020. These events are

great opportunities for Africa members

to engage with the global industry.

Exciting news is that both Kenya and

Ethiopia are looking at establishing

National Convention Bureaus this year.

With currently no ICCA members in West,

North and Central Africa, a focus will be

to engage with industry in these regions.

January will also see the launch of

the ICCA Association Community

to formalise the relationship with

association executives within ICCA’s global

community, and should result in the

growth of the African Association market

and growth in more regional conferences.

Besides the ICCA Africa Regional Office

engaging with members, the office is

also a member of AfSAE, the African

Society of Association Executives, and

gives ICCA a platform to engage with the

association community on the continent

and not only ICCA members as suppliers.

Regional statistics on the

association meetings market

A big opportunity for Africa is to

increase the number of international

and regional association meetings. As

per the 2018 ICCA City and Country

rankings report, Africa’s market share

was only 3.19 per cent with a total

of 414 association conferences being

hosted compared to 12 937 taking place

globally. However, in order to increase

this number for Africa, the continent

need to actively focus on the business

events sector and more countries need

to establish convention bureaus.

Senthil Gopinath,

ICCA CEO:

“The Meetings industry in the African

region is growing rapidly. Glad to

note the region is focusing more and

more on developing the meetings

industry knowledge and expertise. Such

approach will enable to develop the

knowledge economy and achieve societal

development within the region.

“ICCA has been creating in-depth

engagement and platforms

amongst the meetings

industry of Africa through

our regional director

Esmare. We will continue

to increase ICCA’s

contribution towards

the development of the

African meetings industry.”


Business Events Africa January 2020 5

COVER STORY | Indaba Hotel Spa & Conference Centre

Your African

destination in

Johannesburg

ust north of the fast-paced

business world of Sandton,

in the upmarket residential

suburb of Fourways, lies the

258-bedroom Indaba Hotel,

Spa and Conference Centre. It is

a compelling blend of business-like

convenience and efficiency, with a

relaxed and warm country atmosphere.

Coupled with easy and convenient

access to all main highways, OR Tambo

International Airport and a mere 15 km

from Lanseria International Airport, the

hotel features an impressive selection

of some 24 multipurpose conference

venues that can accommodate up to

3 000 delegates in total, with banqueting

facilities for up to 800 guests.

With two restaurants on the property,

there is no need to leave the comfort of

the hotel to enjoy world class cuisine.

Our 300-seater Chief’s Boma Restaurant

caters for all tastes, with over 120

African-inspired dishes ranging from North

African Moroccan cuisine to koeksisters

and melktert from the Cape. And with

a shisa nyama grill boasting a variety of

game meats sizzled to your specification,

everyone is sure to find their favourite.

Steeped in history as one of the oldest

accommodation options in Fourways,

Johannesburg, the charming Indaba

Hotel now welcomes guests with a

refreshing facelift and spruced up

restaurants, including the new Bistro

407, that honour the hotel’s countryside

roots. A new a la carte restaurant opened

within the well-established Epsom

Restaurant, which remains synonymous

with splendid buffet breakfast displays

an excellent lunch variety. Bistro 407 is

a smaller, more intimate eatery within

the larger hotel dining area, and is

now open for more upscale dinners.

The name of the new bistro is another

nod to the history of the Indaba Hotel,

as the property began its life located on

lot 407 of the original farm, Zevenfontein.

6 Business Events Africa January 2020


COVER STORY | Indaba Hotel Spa & Conference Centre

More heritage commemoration can

be found in the two new signature

cocktails, namely the 407 Lavender

Pina Colada and the decadent 407

toasted marshmallow flavouring and

white chocolate sauce. Other tempting

Bistro 407 menu options include

Scottish salmon, wild mushroom and

sun-dried tomato risotto, lamb noisette,

perfect smoked pork belly and the

407 death by chocolate dessert.

Take a wander through the 17 hectares

of lush bushveld gardens and you

will find the Mowana Spa, a wellness

sanctuary which will revive your senses,

rejuvenate your body and soothe your

soul. The Mowana Spa, which takes its

name from the majestic baobab tree of

African lore and legend, offers wellness

journeys based on the recognised

healing energy of tribal massaging.

Signature pamper journeys include

the decadent Mowana full day African

which includes dinner, complimentary

beverages and 3 relaxing treatments;

and the indulgent Mowana African

escape spa and stay pamper journey

for the ultimate decadent relaxation.

Our commitment to service excellence

and staff empowerment through

training and mentoring will ensure

that your needs are met and your

expectations exceeded as you enjoy a

day of pampering at Mowana Spa.

The Indaba Hotel and Mowana Spa are

also proudly green, ensuring responsible

tourism and minimising their carbon

footprint through extensive recycling of

waste products, water-wise gardening,

greening conference initiatives, better

material choices, minimising power

usage and buying local- after all, a better

place to live is a better place to visit.

The Inverroche Gin School located

at Indaba Hotel is an educational and

exciting journey through the endless

world of gin. With your presenter being

an able guide and a knowledgeable

expert, you will be taken back in time to

this spirit’s origin hundreds of years ago.

You will learn new things and have a

laugh with friends about facts you would

barely believe to be true. The experience

gives everyone involved the opportunity

to express themselves and their unique

personalities in a special and creative way.

The Indaba Hotel is sure to meet all

your business and leisure requirements.

We look forward to welcoming

you to our oasis in the city.

Contact Information

c/o William Nicol Drive &

Pieter Wenning Road, Fourways

www.indabahotel.co.za

indaba@indabahotel.co.za

www.businesseventsafrica.com Business Events Africa January 2020 7

THEME: SHARED ECONOMIES

When shared minds come together, we advance Africa

24 FEBRUARY 2020: BONDAY

25-26 FEBRUARY 2020:

EXHIBITION

SANDTON CONVENTION CENTRE

JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA


SANCB | Meetings Africa 2020

Meetings Africa 2020

Business Events Africa, in partnership with the South Africa National Convention

Bureau, continues to run a series of supplements. In this supplement we look at

Meetings Africa 2020, Africa’s premier business events trade show.

MEETINGS AFRICA

will continue building on the

Shared Economies theme in 2020,

with continued specific focus on

regionalisation as a continental

strategy, and how this enhances the

positioning and value offering for

the business events industry

in Africa.

Meetings Africa is a Pan-African

Business Events Trade Show that

has been in existence for 15

years. The trade show was born in response

to the global meetings industry’s growing

recognition of Africa as a sought-after

premier business events destination.

Meetings Africa is a two-day trade show

with a dedicated Educational Day, BONDay,

which is executed in conjunction with the

key industry associations (SAACI, SITE, EXSA,

Event Greening Forum and ICCA).

Meetings Africa 2020 will be held at the

Sandton Convention Centre from 24 to 26

Amanda Kotze-Nhlapo, Chief Convention

Bureau Officer of the South Africa National

Convention Bureau:

“At Meetings Africa 2019, Africa

came out in full force to support

and showcase what business events is

about on the African continent. The show’s

success comes from its regionalisation –

ensuring a focus on the African continent,

with the largest number of African

exhibitors under one roof showcasing

themselves to global and local buyers.

Hosting the show over two days ensures

that it has high impact with a streamlined

networking system.

“At Meetings Africa 2020 we will continue

to enhance the collaboration between

African countries and African associations

so as to create more shared economic

benefits for the continent’s business events

sector. It is about co-operating first and then

competing. This makes the African industry

stronger and better, with an increased

economic impact.

“The show’s further success lies in its

maturity. Meetings Africa provides a

conducive environment to do business. As it

grows year on year, we constantly improve

on the hosted buyer programme and the

diary system to make sure that we drive

return on investment (ROI), so participants

really see the value. We put a high premium

on ROI for both exhibitors and buyers.

“Africa is ready to host business events and

together, really advance Africa together.”

February 2020. Here, meetings industry

professionals partner to enhance our

continent through business events and

tourism offerings.

Irene Costa, editor of

Business Events Africa

“Meetings Africa has earned its place as

Africa’s premier business events trade show.

With the SANCB’s involvement and

leadership, Meetings Africa has grown

significantly. It has become the preferred

meeting place for the business events

industry on the African continent. It offers

international buyers and exhibitors an

African platform to meet and bring together

global industry leaders to advance the

business events industry on the continent.”

ADVANCING AFRICA

TOGETHER

Shared Economies

When shared minds come

together, we advance Africa

Connect to one of the fastest growing

and exciting business destinations in the

world, when blossoming growing global

economies and shared minds unite.




What’s new at

Meetings Africa 2020?

24 February – BONDay

(Business Opportunity

Networking Day)

The purpose of BONDay is to provide

educational sessions for attendees to learn

more about new industry trends which

have the potential to contribute to the

growth of their businesses. The BONDay

programme will be released soon, and

speakers for BONDay, will include captains

of the industry. Attendees can look forward

to cutting-edge technology trends, trade

insights and strategic ways in which to

tactically grow your business. You can look

forward to foremost industry leaders as

well as sector experts who will share their

knowledge and experience for tangible

outcomes that you can apply.

SMME DEVELOPMENT

ZONE

• 15 products participated in 2019

• Participation criteria in line with

Exhibition and NDT TIP programme.

25 February – Show Day 1

Trade floor opening. This is the official

opening ceremony of Meetings Africa,

commemorating 15 years of advancing

Africa together. The session is hosted by

the South African Minister of Tourism,

Mmamoloko Kubayi-Ngubane, who is

attending her very first Meetings Africa.

26 February – Show Day 2

• Day two will kick off with a 5km fun run

that’s open to all attendees

• Women in MICE breakfast for women in

the industry.

• The Green Stand Awards will be

presented for the first time in our worldclass

media centre, providing all winners

with maximum media exposure on a

global scale. The awards are in keeping

with Meetings Africa’s sustainability ethos

and consistent practices to ensure a

reduced carbon footprint.

For the first time, Meetings Africa will have

representation from 20 African countries,

which is a first for the trade show.

15 th

anniversary

In celebration of 15 years,

Meetings Africa plans to

break 2019 records which

saw 343 exhibitors – 37

more than in 2018 – and 86

of whom were from fellow

African countries.

New African exhibitors

coming to Meetings Africa

This year, Meetings Africa welcomes these

three new African exhibitors:

• SunRays Rent-a-Car Safaris Limited.

• Rickshaws Pousada e Café.

• Office National du Tourism DRC – they are

a new exhibitor and a tourism board.

11 African Tourism Boards

will exhibit at Meetings Africa

• The Kingdom of Eswatini.

• Zimbabwe Tourism Authority.

• Botswana Tourism Organisation.

• Malawi Tourism.

• Reunion Island Tourism Board.

• Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority.

• Tanzania Tourist Board.

• Uganda Convention Bureau.

• Office National du Tourism DRC

• Rwanda Convention Bureau.

• South Africa National Convention Bureau.



New and

improved

Meetings

Africa App

The newly-updated

Meetings Africa app is now live and

ready for downloading by all attendees

on all IOS and Android. Among its many

exciting and useful features, the app

allows participants to create profiles

of their businesses, making it easy for

fellow attendees to book appointments

with them before proceedings start,

saving valuable time.

With just one click on the online profiles

of exhibitors, buyers can glean crucial

information about each exhibitor: who

they are, what they do, and what gives

them the edge in the business events

sector. Through using QR codes, the app

makes it so much easier to navigate the

Meetings Africa exhibition floor. There’s

even a floor plan.

The APP is not merely a digital addon,

but rather a functional tool that

enhances the entire show experience.

ECO

report

• While numbers have

increased year on year, the team has

kept track of the energy consumption,

waste created and carbon emissions

associated with the event. Exhibitors

and hosted buyers are invited to

offset their carbon emissions through

procurement of renewable energy

certificates (RECs) or trees.

• Other greening initiatives include a

premium on all bottled water soldonsite,

LED lights for exhibitions,

recycled content used for décor, a full

recycling programme and messaging

about the sustainability initiatives in the

exhibition area.

• The Green Hotel Award and Green

Stand Awards were handed out in

recognition of the environmental and

social efforts implemented by the

winners. This encourages proactive

implementation and showcases the

dedication of SANCB towards hosting a

sustainable event with a lasting impact.

HOSTED BUYERS

Meetings Africa’s hosted buyer

programme is one of the best, securing

high quality buyers who come to the

show with the commitment to do

business in South Africa and Africa. This

hosted buyer programme delivers and

ensures a high ROI for exhibitors.

The majority of buyers hosted by South

African Tourism have an annual budget

of more than 400 000 USD and

are predominantly planners, financial

decision-makers and Influencers.

The meetings industry’s

contribution to jobs and GDP is

not just a South African story but an

African one too.

With business events sustaining over 200 000

jobs and the meetings sector alone

contributing R115 billion to South Africa’s

gross domestic product, the sector

has been identified as key to the

country’s and the continent’s

tourism growth.



PERSONALITY PROFILE

Be open to change

Projeni Pather, 48, managing director of Exposure Marketing and chairperson

of Association of African Exhibition Organisers (AAXO) enjoys the dynamic

nature of the industry and strives to give 110 per cent to everything she does.

Projeni said: “I have been in the

exhibition industry for the past

16 years. Having been in the

advertising and communications industry

before that, I organised numerous

exhibition activations, conferences and

events for many of my clients. I enjoy

the dynamic nature of the industry. You

must be open to change, or you will get

left behind. It gives me great pleasure to

be able to think of a concept and then

make it happen, and I have an amazing

team who all help to make it happen.

“I give 110 per cent to everything

I do, but most importantly, I enrich

the lives of those who work with me.

It’s the people I work with that help

me achieve success,” she said.

Where did you grow up? I grew

up in Durban. I studied to be an English

and drama teacher at University of Durban

Westville. I taught for four years, but

realised that teaching was not for me, so I

started studying communication through

UNISA whilst teaching. Left teaching

and joined the world of PR, marketing

and advertising. I furthered my studies in

marketing and advertising.

What has been the biggest

change you’ve seen in this

sector? Marketing has changed

dramatically. The rise of digital media has

certainly changed the way we engage with

our clients and visitors. Visitor and client

expectations have also changed, and they

expect a quicker response time. We are

living in an always-on culture, and this has

greatly influenced how we do business. It

has impacted everything we create on the

exhibition floor from registration to the

features and layout. The sensory experience

has moved up a notch and we will have to

strive to continue to fulfil this need.

Are you married? Yes, I am married

to Naveen Pather. We have been married

for 23 years. He is also my business partner

and has been my key inspiration in starting

Exposure Marketing. As my biggest fan,

he pushes my boundaries and takes me

out of my comfort zone. His great business

acumen has allowed us to grow Exposure

Marketing to new heights.

What role does your family

play in your life? I have two

children, Mikara (18) and Saiyen (16). My

family keep me grounded. No matter how

challenging work can be it is wonderful to

have a family that is so supportive. They

help me to relax, keep me smiling and

are always eager to hear about my day.

When I started Exposure Marketing my

daughter was two years old and my son

just four months; and I have learnt so much

watching the world through their eyes as

they grow. They help me keep in touch

with the younger generation, and this has

helped me in business.

What would you change in

your life if you could when

looking back? I wouldn’t change a

thing. I believe that every choice I made

was the right one at the time. No matter

how it worked out, it took me to the next

phase of my life. I have been truly enriched

by all my experiences and all the people I

have met along the way.

Do you play any sports? I love

running, spinning and pilates. They keep

me sane.

What is your favourite sport?

We are a soccer family and we support

Manchester United.

What do you do for leisure? I

love to travel abroad, read, explore new

culinary experiences. I enjoy occasional

quiet time, with a Netflix series binge.

What has been your biggest

challenge in this sector? Finding

the right young professionals who are

keen on getting their hands dirty. Many

employees love the planning and the

preparation but are completely frazzled

on site. We need more formal courses

at universities and colleges, with plenty

of internship opportunities for event and

exhibition management.

What is your pet hate? I hate it

when anyone tells me that the reason they

do something is ‘because this is how it’s

always been done’. We constantly need to

assess and reassess what we do; we live and

work in a dynamic environment and we need

to keep abreast of what’s new. Innovation is

the key to success.

What type of holiday would

you avoid at all costs? Camping.

If you could be anyone for the

day who would you be and

why? Michelle Obama. She is a visionary,

impactful, sincere and wants to help make

the world a better place.

What is your favourite city?

I love Los Angeles. The weather is always

great. It has a great energy, a sprawling

coastline, great entertainment, culinary

experiences and the home of movies.

What is your favourite food?

Thai and Mexican.

What advice do you have for

anyone starting out in this

industry and hoping to follow

in your footsteps? Don’t be afraid to

get your hands dirty. You need to know how

it all gets down at ground level before you

move up the ranks. If you feel you are weak

at something, then find a course you can do

to upskill yourself. Make sure you understand

all areas of the business. Stay in tune with

trends. If you believe strongly in something,

speak with confidence. Find opportunities

to network with your peers, it’s so important

for your career development. And don’t burn

your bridges, as you never know when you

will need to work with that person again.

What is your dream for the

future? To live a fulfilling life with no

regrets.


Business Events Africa January 2020 13

MARKET NEWS

The CTICC

Shaping tomorrow, today

On 11 December 2019, the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) held its annual general

meeting for shareholders. The financial statements for the past year were tabled by the board, and once

again demonstrate that the centre continues to build a sustainable legacy that will serve the people of the

City of Cape Town, Western Cape Province and South Africa well into the future.

Driving job creation

As outlined in its Economic Impact Report,

the CTICC has generated more than

130 465 jobs since its inception in 2003.

Despite an economy that is shedding jobs,

assembled shareholders heard that CTICC

created or sustained 14 620 jobs in the

past financial year alone. It is estimated

that the CTICC contributed R1.2 billion to

indirect household income in South Africa

during the 2018/9 financial reporting year.

Impact on the economy

Despite the tough economic trading

environment, revenues have grown by

more than 30 per cent from R172 million

in 2013/14 to R277 million during

the last financial year. The centre

achieved an operating profit (EBITDA)

of R57.5 million in the year under

review, which was R49.57 million above

the target of R8 million, representing

a 69 per cent increase from the

R35.4 million achieved in 2013/14.

The convention centre was able

to increase its revenue through the

417 070 delegates, which amounted

to 877 129 delegate and visitor days,

hosted over the 560 events.

The delegates drawn

to the CTICC make a

significant contribution

to the tourism industry of

Cape Town, the Western

Cape and South Africa as

a whole. It is estimated

that an additional

566 057 room nights were generated

in the Western Cape and 575 898 in

South Africa by the CTICC’s events in

2018/19. Total foreign exchange spend

as a result of the tourism generated by

these events is estimated at R677 million.

Effectively the CTICC contributed

a total of R4.5 billion to the Western

Cape’s Gross Geographical Product

(GGP) and R6.5 billion to South Africa’s

Gross Domestic Product (GDP). To date,

the centre has made a cumulative

contribution to the Western Cape’s

GDP of R39.6 billion and R47.3

billion to South Africa’s GDP.

In addition, the centre procured

R331 million worth of goods and services

from local Western Cape suppliers,

this equates to 87 per cent of our

overall nett spend. In respect to B-BBEE

suppliers, R328 million was spent, which

was 86 per cent of the centre’s nett

spend. While 39 per cent of the total

procurement spend was with womenowned

enterprises.

Shaping the future

The CTICC is committed to a triple

bottom line approach, focusing as

strongly on its environmental and

social impact as on profit margins.

This ensures all areas of the business

interconnect to create a conscientious

and sustainable business that cares about

its communities and the environment.

In 2019, the CTICC invested R1.6 million

in corporate social responsibility (CSR)

initiatives, including activations and

venue sponsorships. Staff at the centre

support the CTICC’s local community

partners through various activations

by donating their time and resources.

Through these initiatives, the centre aims

to empower disadvantaged communities

and provide much needed support to

vulnerable citizens and children.

Globally, consumers and event organisers

are demanding that companies follow

sustainable business practices and

processes, and due to the centre’s focus

on waste management, energy

consumption, local sourcing

and water conservation, it

is well-placed to respond

to such demands.

One of the CTICC’s most

significant sustainability

initiatives during 2018

was the installation of

a reverse osmosis plant,



MARKET NEWS

purpose-designed to cater to its daily water

consumption requirements. The plant

extracts underground seawater, filters and

purifies it to produce 200 000 litres of

drinking water in a 24-hour cycle. A storage

tank with a capacity of 400 000 litres

accommodates maximum-demand

scenarios. As a result, the centre is able to

offer 100 per cent water-neutral events.

Other water-saving initiatives during the

year under review included the installation

of rainwater storage tanks with a capacity

of 265 000 litres. This water is used for

irrigation of plants and cleaning. About

20 000 litres of water is also captured

weekly from the air-conditioning units

and used for cleaning purposes.

The centre is dedicated to reducing

the carbon footprint of daily operations,

and this focus includes the kitchens.

The kitchens use water from the reverse

osmosis plant, which kills bacteria as well

as utilises energy-efficient ovens. Wherever

possible, local ingredients are used, with

all the centre food and beverage suppliers

being within a 50 kilometre radius.

The kitchens only order what is needed

for a particular event, a kind of just-intime

system called event-based ordering.

This means that stocks are not held,

produce is always fresh and waste is

reduced. In the last year, 86 per cent

of all waste was diverted from landfill

through recycling and upcycling.

In respect of energy, it was reported that

despite the addition of CTICC 2, which

doubled the centre’s exhibition capacity,

energy consumption only increased by

6.25 per cent in the last year. The CTICC

continues to focus on reducing its electrical

consumption and as part of a five year

strategy, is looking at investigating in

photovoltaic-solar options and water

heating by means of heat pumps.

A long list of projects, partnerships

and campaigns further reduce the

centre’s carbon footprint and enable it

to help its clients ‘green’ their events.

The spekboom perfectly illustrates

CTICC’s commitment to sustainability

with every AGM attendee receiving one.

As each spekboom tree can remove

8.5 kg of CO 2 from the air, this could one

day equate to 1.0625 tonnes of carbon

removed a year. Spekbooms can live to

be 200 years old, are edible and are easy

to propagate, so this initiative will really

have an impact on the future. The CTICC

also supported Greenpop’s tree-planting

initiative, by planting a tree at the Platbos

Forest, on behalf of each attendee.

“Our core business is to provide a

platform for events which in turn facilitates

the knowledge economy. This report

showcases how our business is making a

difference,” notes Julie-May, CTICC CEO.

“This year’s results highlight our

contribution to job creation, alongside

our increase in revenue, our contributions

to GGP and GDP, as well as local

procurement. I must add that I am

particularly proud of how many womenowned

suppliers we work with, and how

we support our community through

corporate social responsibility spend.”

“All this was achieved while setting a

standard for excellence in conscientious

business practices, hospitality and event

hosting, both locally and internationally.

Our achievements are as a result of

hard work and strategic alignment

to the Western Cape Province’s trade

and investment areas, and the City

of Cape Town’s catalytic sectors.

“I have absolutely loved my five years at

the CTICC,” said Ms Ellingson, who will

be leaving the CTICC in the beginning

of 2020. “It has been a real privilege

to work alongside such a passionate

and dedicated team. Together we have

done great things, and I know that the

team will continue to deliver exceptional

events for our clients, make a meaningful

contribution to our economy and more

importantly, support our communities

through job creation and volunteerism.”

Taubie Motlhabane appointed CEO of the CTICC

The Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) has appointed Taubie

Motlhabane as the centre’s new chief executive officer.

Motlhabane will formally take over the

position from the convention centre’s

current chief executive officer, Julie-

May Ellingson, at the end of January 2020.

Ms Motlhabane holds a masters in global marketing

as well as a bachelor degree in communications,

alongside over 29 years’ experience in both the private

and public business sphere. During this time, some

of her previous roles included, executive director of

Tshwane Convention & Visitor Bureau and business

tourism manager for South African Tourism.

“This expertise is complemented by Taubie’s extensive

knowledge in strategy development, business planning,

the business events industry and marketing. It is

clear to us that she will add significant value as chief

executive officer of the CTICC. We look forward to

having her at the helm, leading the CTICC team,”

said Deon Cloete, chairperson of the CTICC board.

Ms Ellingson said: “The centre’s success can be

attributed to a passionate CTICC team that focuses

on attracting and hosting events seamlessly. The

addition of CTICC 2 is testament to this success, and

something I am particularly proud to have lead and

completed during my time at the convention centre.

“It has been an absolute pleasure working

at the CTICC, and it is with pride that I hand

over to another knowledgeable, passionate,

and strong woman. I wish Taubie all the best

and I am sure the CTICC will continue to

go from strength to strength,” she said.

In conclusion, Ms Motlhabane said: “I am

excited about building on the success of

the conferencing complex. I know that the

sector is a dynamic industry, and one with

so much potential. I intend to strategically

harness and unlock this possibility and

essentially build on the centre’s stellar

reputation on the global stage.”


VENUE WITH A VIEW | Fancourt

Fancourt

Understated luxury and beauty

Located just outside George on South Africa’s Garden Route, overlooked by the majestic Outeniqua

Mountains and surrounded by 613 hectares of pristine countryside, striking landscapes and a

staggering coastline, Fancourt’s beautiful setting is the perfect place to mix business and pleasure.

Fancourt turned 25 in 2019, a

milestone made all the more

special when it was crowned

“South Africa’s Leading Resort” in the

World Travel Awards, as well as “South

Africa’s Best Golf Hotel” in the World

Golf Awards. And no wonder. Fancourt’s

warm hospitality, understated luxury

and enviable offering of activities and

attractions has cemented its reputation

as South Africa’s premier lifestyle resort.

While Fancourt needs no introduction

to keen golfers and holidaymakers, it is

also the perfect venue for conferences,

meetings and events. An easy 10-minute

shuttle from George Airport delivers

guests to the estate, where modern

conference facilities (including a banquet

hall, boardrooms, meeting rooms and

breakaway options), five-star service

and beautiful accommodation awaits.

Discover genuine comfort at the

Fancourt Hotel. Its 115 spacious rooms

and suites all blend modern luxury with

classic elegance, and the result is a

relaxed, comfortable and charming stay

– ideal for every type of visitor, from solo

business travellers, golfing and special

interest groups to conference delegates.

The perfect conference balances hard

work, inspiration and networking with

downtime and fun. And this is where

Fancourt really comes into its own. The

ultimate business playground, Fancourt

offers guests the perfect base from which

to explore the Garden Route and the leisure

team is on hand

to organise

anything

from wine

tastings to Big 5 game drives,

boat cruises and more.

Adventure-seeking delegates

can enjoy mountain biking,

horse riding or trail running, or

simply keep active by exploring

the estate on foot, by bike or

Eco Elec Scooter. Two beautiful

pools beckon (one heated, perfect

for winter or early morning swims),

while Fancourt’s fishing dams tantalise

anglers with big-mouth black bass.

Of course, Fancourt’s three championship

golf courses remain a big drawcard.

Each rank in Golf Digest’s Top 15 courses

in the country, and it’s the perfect

opportunity for golfers to tick off their

ultimate bucket list by playing The Links

(1), Montagu (8) and Outeniqua (14).

Fancourt will happily organise a

round of golf (or three!) for your team,

or book a group into The Academy

at Fancourt for the ultimate golf

lesson – a memorable experience

for enthusiasts and novices alike.

If it’s pure relaxation you are after, The

Spa at Fancourt (named the ‘Best Hotel Spa

in South Africa’ at the annual Les Nouvelles

Esthetiques Spa Awards in 2018), soothes

and pampers in equal measure. Guests can

choose from a range of blissful treatments,

or simply relax in the spa’s Roman bath and

jacuzzi, sauna, steam room or tepidarium.

It is a sanctuary like no other and the

perfect way to unwind at conference end.

Food also has a starring role at

Fancourt. The Garden Route, Klein

Karoo and surrounding areas provide a

smorgasbord of locally-sourced ingredients

(think fresh seafood, farm cheeses and

organic vegetables) and Fancourt’s

chefs pride themselves on delivering

an unforgettable dining experience.

La Cantina is every bit as easy-going

and Mediterranean as the name suggests,

it’s home to Fancourt’s hearty buffet

breakfasts and ever-popular thin-crust

pizzas. Monet’s café is a French-style bistro

serving up great coffee, a relaxed, convivial

atmosphere and magnificent mountain

views. The Club House is the spot for

steaks, burgers and cocktails, while Henry

White’s at The Manor House promises

an evening of culinary excellence.

With special business rates available

between 1 April and 31 October 2020,

there is no better time to book your

conference or event at Fancourt.

Rates are from R2 020 per person

sharing or from R2 640 per single, and

include one of the following: a full-day

conference package, round of golf, spa

voucher, or dinner voucher.

Contact the Fancourt Reservations

Team for more information:

www.fancourt.co.za

reservations@fancourt.co.za

+ 27 (0) 44 804 0010



PERSONALITY PROFILE


VENUE WITH A VIEW | Umthunzi Hotel and Conference

Taking care of business has

never been this breathtaking

Umthunzi Hotel & Conference is an award winning, uniquely affordable, luxury venue that welcomes

leisure guests, business delegates, events and wedding parties. It is perfectly positioned on the beautiful

South Coast, one of the finest and most recreational coastlines in South Africa, in the leafy suburb of

Umtentweni, near the bustling town of Port Shepstone, overlooking the Indian Ocean.

Just over an hour south of Durban

and 20 minutes from Margate

Airport, Umthunzi has been

voted for three years running the “Best

Function Venue” on the South Coast,

a testimony to the excellent quality of

service offerings for all functions.

Meet with us

Famous for warm hospitality, breathtaking

sea views, delicious food, and turnkey service,

you will be given a personalised, custom

made quotation to meet all your needs for

a perfect, custom-made function or event.

Umthunzi offers four different function

rooms, from an intimate 12-seater

boardroom to a large 100-seater

venue, and each can be set up in your

preferred way. The Restaurant and

Terrace Deck can be used for wonderful

award ceremonies and gala dinners.

All function rooms come standard

with free Wi-Fi, different equipment per

room and the option to have breakaway

rooms depending on availability.

Have a bash, a ball or tie

the knot

From intimate family celebrations to full house

corporate banqueting, Umthunzi is a function

venue of choice. Ideal for business year end

functions, corporate getaways, birthdays,

anniversaries, product launches and so much

more. Umthunzi is known for welcoming,

professional service and excellent ambience.

You will have your package personally

customised to suit your style and focus.

Getting married? Why not have an out

of this world romantic coastal wedding

at our gorgeous poolside Milkwood

Venue with an unforgettable dreamy

reception overlooking the Indian Ocean?

Awarded “Best Coastal Wedding Venue”

by Top Vendor Awards, Umthunzi is a

wonderful venue catering for small to large

wedding parties of up to 220 people.

Spend the night

Your accommodation is taken care

of at our hotel. Unwind in one of 49

well-appointed deluxe and executive

deluxe rooms that offers the space and

comfort of a luxurious, clean and airconditioned

room in which to relax.

Create a wonderful family room by

adding to your smart deluxe bedroom

– a very spacious interleading lounge

plus adjoining bunk bedroom, that has

4 adult quality mattresses on the beds.

The magnificent Milkwood bridal

suite is the most luxurious on the

southern KwaZulu-Natal coastline.

Tucked away on the top floor with an

incredible view of the Indian Ocean

and a small private balcony, it is a

lavish retreat for a romantic stay.

No need to go further than

30° south

Overlooking the Indian Ocean is a wide

terrace deck that leads out from the stylish

décor in the restaurant. We love that our

well-appointed upmarket venue has been

called a gem by many patrons. Serving

you the full range of hotel fare from

delightful full English breakfasts, delicious

light lunches, buffet or 3-course a-la-carte

dinners (depending on occupancy).

Take in our amazing sea views, have a

delicious cocktail or indulge in our awardwinning

wine list, whale watch from

the terrace deck or take a walk to the

beach and swim in the waves, dive into

the pool at the hotel or have a game of

pool or darts in the smart Lantern Bar.

Whatever you choose to do at our

beautiful hotel – work, stay or play – we

will help you to do it your way.

18 Business Events Africa January 2020 www.businesseventsafrica.com

VENUE NEWS

River Place Lodge joins

Guvon Signature Collection

Guvon Hotels & Spas like keeping you guessing what they will be doing next. This all started some 30

years back with the Scottish-themed Glenburn Lodge, and then a five-star fly-fishing haven opened up

on the others side of the Swartkops Mountain in Muldersdrift. Soon after, the sound of pinging golf balls

and roaring lions were added to this ever-growing portfolio.

What does Guvon Hotels and

Spas have up their sleeve

next? Nothing beats a venue

situated in tranquil, lush surroundings,

and with the Hennops River flowing

through it, you could be forgiven

for thinking you are in the middle of

nowhere. In fact, this is River Place Lodge,

conveniently located just 20 minutes

from both Fourways and Centurion.

This serene venue with an authentic

riverside setting is conveniently located

on the outskirts of Johannesburg and

Pretoria. The award-winning venue

with its diversified product offering

successfully distinguishes itself within

the competitive hospitality market by

being a symbol of service excellence.

River Place is a picturesque venue

for romantic getaways, gastronomic

experiences, weddings, special events

and conferences. With one of the only

true riverside settings in the region, River

Place offers a range of facilities amid

beautiful natural surroundings, including

al Fiume restaurant with prime riverfront

locations, sprawling lawns for picnics

and events, two private function rooms.

Accommodation comprising 16

deluxe cottage-style rooms and three

stone-clad suites provides comfort

with a sense of timeless tranquillity.

al Fiume Restaurant – Italian for

‘at the river’ – is a restaurant for all

seasons, enjoy long lazy summer

days on the wooden deck or cozy

up in winter in the restaurant while

watching the river flowing past.

Leon Bosch, operations director of

Guvon Hotels and Spas, explained

the collaboration between the Guvon

properties and River Place Lodge: “It is

perfectly situated geographically and

by obtaining this management contact

we have now increased our footprint

into the Pretoria markert and River

Place Lodge fills that gap within our

portfolio. We have seen strong interest

from the local business market and

look forward to building a mutually

strong relationship,” Mr Bosch said.

Ken Davidson, general manager of River

Place Lodge echoes the same sentiment:

“We believe that the synergy between

the Guvon Hotel properties and River

Place Hotel is well suited and The Guvon

team have a reputation of teamwork and

great hotels in excellent locations, that

deliver good customer service and this fits

in well with our business philosophy.



EXPO NEWS

Annual Travel Expo goes

national in 2020

The largest consumer travel show in southern Africa, Flight Centre Travel Group’s annual Travel Expo,

returns for its tenth year in 2020, but in an exciting new format. The 2020 Travel Expo #TravelExpo20

will be a pop-up event, with deals available at all 121 Flight Centre and Cruiseabout stores across the

country. The event will run for three days from 28 February to 1 March 2020.

Last year’s Travel Expo, held

at the Ticketpro Dome in

Johannesburg over one weekend

in February, reported 30,000 visitors

and over R50 million in travel sales.

“To mark the 10th anniversary of

the Travel Expo, we have decided

to extend the Expo’s reach across

South Africa,” said Andrew Stark,

Flight Centre Travel Group managing

director, Middle East and Africa.

This is in response to the event’s

growing popularity, and requests

by customers to bring the expo

to other cities in South Africa.

“By going national, more people

will have the opportunity to book

unbeatable expo deals, just in a far more

convenient space and accessible way.

The same great deals will be available at

all local Flight Centre and Cruiseabout

stores, as well as online on our website.

These will be over 500 exclusive deals

that can’t be found anywhere else.

Think the same great deals with far

more convenience,” Mr Stark said.

Mr Stark confirmed that the 2020 Travel

Expo will be a three-day event held after

payday, so consumers have more days to

take advantage of the deals on offer.

Last year’s Travel Expo saw a 40 per cent

increase in attendance. Sue Garrett,

Flight Centre Travel Group (FCTG)

general manager, marketing and

product, reported that over 70 per cent

of bookings made at the 2019 expo

were for international travel.

Top destinations included

Mauritius, Thailand, Australia, the US

and Indonesia. Garrett predicts that

once again rand-friendly destinations,

package holidays, cruises and guided

holidays will be bestsellers.

“Demand for cruises have increased

year on year,” added Sara Park, marketing

campaign manager at Cruiseabout, a

division of the Flight Centre Travel Group.

“Cruising remains one of the most

value-for-money holidays, with a huge

variety of cruises to appeal to every age

and interest. Local and regional cruises

are always immensely popular. Still,

we predict more interest in alternative

options, such as river cruising, boating

holidays and bucket-list trips to ecoconscious

destinations such as India,

the Amazon and Galapagos Islands.”

Domestic travel is also predicted

to be popular.

“Given unpredictable exchange

rates, and the huge diversity of tourism

attractions in South Africa, our Local

Breaks and Stokvel Travel initiatives

aim to get more South Africans

exploring our beautiful country.”

“Travel Expo has become synonymous

with South Africans planning their

holidays for the entire year,” Mr Stark said.

“We are excited that the 2020 pop-up

Travel Expo will reach more South Africans

than ever before, either at their local Flight

Centre store or online,” he added.


TECH WATCH

Social media trends for 2020

By Charné O’Haughey, social specialist at Reprise Digital South Africa

It’s clear that social media has become an integral part of people’s lives, forming a large part

of their daily routine. So how are we, as marketers and businesses, connecting with our target

audiences in 2020, given that there is an already large flock to social platforms?

This can prove to be extremely

difficult for brands, especially when

it comes to standing out in an

already crowded space, unless of course

you have a clear social media marketing

strategy fuelled by staying up to date with

the latest social media trends. Below are

five big moves to keep your eyes on.

The use of ephemeral content

This can be found on Facebook, Instagram,

Snapchat and WhatsApp Stories, with

advertising opportunities starting for the

latter this year.This temporary content takes

advantage of real FOMO by only being

accessible for a brief period. Attention spans

are short and looking at how consumers

consume information on social media, being

pulled here and there – scrolling – swiping

– laughing – scrolling – reading –scrolling –

forgetting it all, makes ephemeral content

appealing and more engaging as users

are encouraged to create user-generated

content, partake in polls, Q&As and so

much more. This type of content is more

spontaneous and allows brands to connect

in a unique way, becoming recognised

as more human, relatable and reliable.

Social commerce expansion

While we know that dominating platforms

such as Facebook, Instagram and YouTube

have been long used by brands to sell their

products, it’s safe to say that social commerce

has become a new retail avenue for brands,

and this is going to rise in 2020 with more

brands climbing onto the bandwagon.

More niche platforms will follow suit by

introducing selling/shopping posts. We will

see these channels becoming mainstream

retail on par with retail websites and offline

stores. This means that competition will

be fiercer, challenging new strategies

around content and implementation

on these already crowded platforms.

Domination from video content

Across all social platforms that may have

been traditionally dominated by image or text

content, it is clear that the most engaging

form of content is video, and this goes hand

in hand with mobile users. Users are twice

as likely than TV viewers and 1.4 times more

likely as desktop viewers, to feel a sense of

personal connection to brands that show

video content or ads on their devices. As

data continues to become cheaper, we can

expect to see a significant increase in video

content consumed by South Africans.

So whether it be short ephemeral

content or long-form YouTube videos, it is

important to utilise video content in order

to stay on par in the social media domain.

Personalising segmentation

While a brand has a main identity (with

many sub factors), a key aspect we

are able to leverage off is the ability to

personalise ads to reach different target

segments. Social platforms offer advanced

targeting options, including customisation

of audiences and on various platforms

we can include more than one primary

copy, headline copy, description copy, and

customisable placements. Personalisation

will continue to rise with platforms serving

ads to users who have showed interests

in similar products from different brands.

Customer service

We have established that social platforms

have evolved into retail platforms, product

discovery platforms, awareness platforms

and now customer support platforms!

This trend began gradually as a result of

delayed/ no response through various

other channels. From there, brands started

directing users to the correct channels

to use. It’s not just some one-off cases

where customers post their questions

or complaints on social media and

brands respond. Now, it has become

a significant enough customer service

channel for brands to recognise it as one.

Social media is dynamic, and it is

important to leverage

these trends which will

dominate the social

media landscape

in 2020 in order to

stay ahead of

competitors

and to woo

consumers.

Happy

clicking!

Who is Charné O’Haughey?

Charné O’Haughey is the social specialist

for Reprise Digital South Africa. She lives

in a world where she’s able to work with

innovative businesses doing what she does

best, reading books that come bundled

with dark chocolate and laced with

adventure. Born and raised in Pretoria,

Charné moved to the Johannesburg area

to reach her career dreams in the media

industry and the amazing opportunities of

working with world-class clients. She has a

passion for strategy, media planning and

implementation. You will probably find

her working on Facebook and Instagram

campaigns, or expanding her knowledge

with as many courses as she can get her

hands on.



VENUE NEWS

Tsogo Sun Hotels says hi to an

out-of-the-ordinary new brand

Tsogo Sun Hotels is venturing into a new space with a uniquely different hotel brand, hi Hotels.

Designed to continue delivering on the group’s promise of creating great experiences, this new brand is

young, authentic and modern.

Tim de Raedt, hi Hotels’ director

of operations, said: “There is a

segment of the market that is

looking for an affordable, comfortable and

well-designed space to stay, rather than a

hotel with all the bells and whistles. They

want convenience and some creature

comforts, and a base from which they can

explore the city, go about their business

and enjoy what the neighbourhood

has to offer. hi Hotels provides all that,

and we’re excited to be incorporating it

into the Tsogo Sun Hotels portfolio.”

He said the hi Hotels brand is positioned

in the select service category, offering

room rates at below R1 000. The rooms

have luxurious walk-in showers, big

windows, blackout curtains, coffee

and tea stations, laptop-sized safes,

USB ports, and 48-inch TVs. The ‘living

lobby’ provides space to work and

play, and a convenient deli offering for

a quick snack or coffee on the run.

Technology is an important element for

hi Hotels; it will be the first hotel within

the Tsogo Sun Hotels stable to offer

online and self-check-in facilities. The

hotel’s TV system will allow guests to cast

their own content to their room TV in a

simple process of connecting to the free

uncapped high speed Wi-Fi, scanning a QR

code and opening the app of their choice.

The first hi Hotel is opening at

Montecasino in Johannesburg by late

January 2020 with 123 bedrooms (46

double doubles and 77 queens) that are

modern, uncluttered and comfortable.

The hotel, which has been built using a

modular construction method, offers easy

access to the many varied restaurants,

bars, theatres, shops, conference and

event venues, and other entertainment

options in Montecasino, Gauteng’s

premier entertainment destination.

The hotel is located less than 100

metres away from the outdoor piazza.

“The location is a good example of

what we are looking for in future hi

Hotels sites. For the concept to work

we need sites that have a variety of

restaurants within walking distance and

centrally located near an entertainment

or corporate node.” Several sites have

been identified for a further rollout

of the brand in the next two years.

“We’re proud to be breaking new

ground with this fresh brand – and we

look forward to introducing people to the

hi Hotels offering,” Mr De Raedt said.


COMPANY NEWS

GL events South Africa

Think people, think green and think local

The dynamic GL events Group

is one of the leading event and

exhibition suppliers in South

Africa, and prides itself on

being an industry giant that

never sleeps. Business Events

Africa looks back at GL events’

achievements in 2019 and

how their victories add to their

service excellence.

Operational in South Africa for

more than 40 years, the group

is well established and has

the necessary experience to further

expand on the African continent.

GL events Group is focused on

three main pillars; think people, think

green and think local, with more than

90 branches of the group actively

advancing in these three areas, the

South African branch is no different.

Think Green

Conscious of their environment and

the massive impact of the industry on

sustainability, 2019 saw the launch of

the very first environmentally friendly

exhibition display system. The ECO MOD

product was launched in April and was

well-received within the business events

industry. The product offers a display

system made from recycled cardboard,

not only is the product produced

from recycled material but it can also

be fully recycled and is reusable.

Focusing on the elements of a circular

economy, the product also meets

green manufacturing, transport and

production standards. There is a definite

drive towards Thinking Green and the

company endeavours to continuously

develop its product and service line

to include sustainable solutions.

Think People

The commitment to Think People in

2019 and 2018 saw the first local teams

integrated into international projects. From

senior project managers, sales executives

to factory workers were included in the

GL events International projects such as

the Asian Games, Commonwealth Games

and COP25 to mention but a few.

During the last two years, the teams

have gained unparalleled experience in

the international events and exhibitions

space which enabled them to offer a

truly world-class experience to local

customers. The group is committed to

continually invest in their employees and

proud to announce the inclusion of more

than 40 staff members in international

projects in the last two years. In 2020

the group plans to continue down this

path with applications for projects in

the Middle East already on the cards.

In line with the development of

internal staff members, the company is

also focused on job-creation and aiding

the fight against unemployment. On a

bi-annual basis, GL events South Africa

offers a two-year learnership programme

to unemployed and disabled youth, giving

them a chance to obtain an industryrelevant

qualification. These learners

are often absorbed into the company

after the completion of their studies

and an internship programme, from the

latest group of graduates; three were

absorbed into the Johannesburg branch

as interns and are now working for the

company as permanent employees.

Think Local

A company that really Thinks Local is

willing to put a financial commitment

behind this statement, in 2019 the

GL events group proved its loyalty to

Did you know?

• GL events is now present in over

23 countries with more than

4 500 employees.

• In 2019 the group for the first time

exceeded €1 billion in revenue.

• The group now manages more than

50 venues worldwide.

Africa by acquiring their first venue on

the continent. The acquisition of the

Johannesburg Expo Centre (JEC) was

completed in February 2019 with the

GL events Group now the majority

shareholder of this well-known venue.

Keeping with their commitment to local,

the group has set forth a strategy for the

JEC to be integrated into the GL events

South Africa branch, with ample group

support and the integration well underway

the group venues team works closely with

the local team to offer support and skills

transfer for the JEC and all its employees.

Interesting stats on


• The local company delivers more

than 70 000 sqm of stand space

per annum.

• More than 18 000 sqm of custom

exhibition stands and elements

are designed by the three local studios

each year.

• More than 250 events and

exhibition projects completed

each year.

• Main contractor and infrastructure

partner to some of the oldest and

largest shows in South Africa,

continuously supplying these shows for

more than 25 years.



MARKET NEWS

INTEGRATED

SOLUTIONS


GL events South Africa is a leading Exhibitions and

Events Solution provider. With over 40 years experience,

3 branches in South Africa and unrivalled expertise we

are able to cater for all your needs with our broad range

of services.

Services We Offer

• Custom Exhibition Stands

• Retail & Shopfitting Solutions

• Reception & Showroom Solutions

• Trade Shows & Exhibitions

• Event Infrastructure

• Furniture & Flooring

• Design Solutions

• Marquees

• Hospitality Services

Our Capacity Capabilities

70,000sqm Stand Space

delivered per year

18,000sqm Stand Space

designed by our integrated studio

> 200 Projects

delivered per year

+ 16,000 Furniture References

in stock

> 40 Events

supplied per year

Johannesburg T: +27 (0)11 210 2500

email us on info.za@gl-events.com

Cape Town T: +27 (0)21 526 3200

www.businesseventsafrica.com Durban T: +27 (0)31 579 3255 www.gl-events.co.za Business Events Africa | www.gl-events.com

January 2020 25

A LOCAL PERSPECTIVE

Robust business interruption

strategies in turbulent times

Business interruption insurance is critical to keep the revenue generating ability of a business intact.

Amidst catastrophic events such as political strikes, cyber-attacks or natural disasters, business

interruption scenarios are evolving rapidly, with the risk rated at #4 on the list of top 10 risks according

to Aon’s Global Risk Management survey.

Business interruption insurance

is designed to compensate

the business for the

financial impact of the interruption or

interference as a result of the insured

suffering physical damage to the

insured property or other key external

events, for example damage at a key

customer or a supplier’s depot, or own

operations that prevents the normal

business operations from continuing

and generating revenue,” explained

Tony Webster of insurance brokerage

and risk advisors, Aon South Africa.

Aon’s global risk management

survey identifies three trends that

are elevating the necessity for

business interruption insurance:

• Man-made disruptions such as

political protests and labour strikes

are making headlines regularly. They

cripple business and government

operations, as well as transportation

infrastructure. As a result, organisations

with operations or critical suppliers

that are affected by it face a threat to

the continuity of their businesses.

• More and more organisations rely

on digital technology to improve

operational efficiency and manage

their supply chains. They are, however,

becoming more vulnerable to cyberattacks

which have emerged as a

major cause of business interruption.

• Part from man-made disruptions,

natural disasters also inflict hefty

damages globally. In its 2018 annual

report, Aon’s Impact Forecasting

team documented 394 natural

catastrophes. Of those, 42 were

USD billion-dollar events. As a result,

2017 and 2018 were the costliest

back-to-back years on record for

economic losses (USD 653 billion)

solely due to weather-related events.

“South Africa finds itself in a dynamic

situation where all three of these trends

are impacting businesses financially.

Firstly, climate change has created

volatile weather systems, leading to more

severe rainstorms, drought and wildfires.

Secondly, emerging incidents such as

cyber-attacks and internal data breaches

are occurring more regularly, and while

these disruptions may not cause any

physical damage, they result in similar,

if not greater, financial losses. Thirdly,

South Africa’s business sector is bearing

the brunt of political unrest and service

delivery strikes. The dynamic interplay

of these risks is often underpinned by a

complex supply chain that brings its own

set of risks to the table,” says Mr Webster.

This complexity often serves as a barrier

when trying to determine the level of

built-in resilience an organisation has and

attempting to design appropriate risk

financing and mitigating programmes.

In some cases, existing insurance

protections may not even meet

the business’s changing needs.

“Risk managers should

take a much broader view

of risk, both traditional and

emerging ones, and address

it in a coordinated and holistic

way. Being prepared enables

companies to keep operating

or at least minimise the

losses during natural

disasters, cyber or

terrorist attacks or

reputational crisis.

While insurance

can cover

some of the

property and

operational

losses, it

cannot

make up

for the loss

of market

Tony Webster, Aon

South Africa.

share, reputational damage, decline in

investor confidence, or a decline in the

share price caused by an interruption.

Therefore, a fortified and robust business

continuity plan will boost a company’s

resilience in the event of a business

interruption event,” Mr Webster said.

Aon recommends the

following in planning a BI

strategy:

• Identify risks and analyse existing

insurance policies; and matching those

with international programme solutions.

• Evaluate a company’s overall risk

picture and the probability of risk

events actually occurring in order to

calculate the amount of potential loss.

• Applying concrete measures and

procedures to manage risks by

implementing constructive risk

engineering, risk financing and

change management solutions.

• Control different risk measures at

every phase and put effective and

sustainable risk management

on a firm footing.

In a world of growing complexity

and the interrelated nature of

risks, no company can afford

to avoid the very real threat

that business interruption

holds to its operations.

“Continuity plans

should always be

ongoing works

of improvement

and constant

risk mitigation.

Everyone in the

business should be

asking what the

worst-case scenario

could be, and as

a business, how to

respond to it,” Mr

Webster concluded.



EVENT GREENING FORUM

Looking ahead

The Event Greening Forum in 2020

The Event Greening Forum (EGF) is ready for a busy year, and is launching a number of projects –

including the two below, both of which will play a critical role in improving the sustainability standards

of the South African business events industry.

1. Green event certification

“The growth in interest in green

event certification is indicative of

how the events industry has started

embracing sustainability, but the lack

of recognised certification labels and

specialists offering this service remains

a potential constraint to growth,” says

Greg McManus, the EGF Chairperson.

“The EGF is at the advanced stage of

developing a framework of certification

standards against which interested

organisations and specialists can apply

to have their own event certification

labels recognised by the EGF.”

The EGF started this process after

developing its Minimum Standard

for Sustainable Events in 2015.

However, there has been a lot more

work since with regards to addressing

the minimum prescribed evaluation

criteria, evaluation methodologies and

administrative processes involved.

It’s important to understand that

the EGF will not be creating an EGF

certification label, nor will it be offering

certification. Rather, independent

companies will certify green events

under the auspices of the EGF, with the

EGF providing recognition against a

prescribed technical standard in order to

ensure a standardised and compatible

evaluation and certification service.

2. Online training courses

After much debate and planning, the

EGF will be launching a range of online

sustainable event management

courses in the coming year. Making

these learning opportunities available

online will help the organisation better

cater for the varying needs of different

types of service providers, as well

as different levels of understanding

(from beginner to advanced).

An added benefit to online training is

that anyone can do it from anywhere in

the world – and in their available time,

which is essential for those working in

the events industry. A further benefit is

that some courses will carry CPD points.

As for green event certification, the

EGF will not create these courses. Instead

it will find service providers who have

developed suitable training materials,

which it will then host on the platform

Free event greening training

Don’t forget – the EGF is hosting

free introductory event greening

workshops, as part of the Meetings

Africa and Africa’s Travel Indaba

exhibitor briefings. These will be held

in Johannesburg (17 January), Cape

Town (20 January) and Durban (21

January). While the training is aimed

at the exhibitors to these shows, the

information is broadly relevant to

anyone working in the events industry,

and anyone in the industry is welcome

to attend. This training is free thanks

to its generous sponsorship by the

South Africa National Convention

Bureau. However registration is

essential. Please visit eventgreening.

co.za for more information.

under the EGF banner. If this could

be of interest to you, please send an

email to info@eventgreening.co.za.

What are your plans for 2020?

“As the need for improved sustainability

becomes increasingly clear around the

globe, we hope you are looking at how

you can adapt your business to these new

pressures. We urge you to sign up to our

monthly newsletter for the latest local

event greening news and information,

and to consider becoming a member

of the EGF,” adds Mr McManus.

Please note that in last month’s Sustainability

Trends article, Kevan Jones was named as

the executive director of SAICA. It should

have been of SACIA – the Southern African

Communications Industries Association.

About the EGF

The Event Greening Forum (EGF) is a

non-profit organisation that promotes

sustainability within the business events

sector. It does this by hosting educational

sessions for industry and lobbying

government in an effort to implement

sustainability principles into the daily

operations of the events industry.

The EGF was established through

dedication and support of eight industry

associations who are recognised as

founding members. The founding

members are key industry associations

working together to promote South

Africa as a destination for various types

of events.

Want to know more?

If you would like to know more

about event greening, visit www.

eventgreening.co.za where you can

browse the free resources, sign up to

the monthly newsletter, or contact them

directly with any queries.

Contact:

Lynn Mcleod

T: 082 891 5883

E: lynn@eventgreening.co.za


SAACI NEWS

Embracing the

new decade

By Glenton de Kock, chief executive officer of SAACI

Two decades into the new century, the world is

indeed a different place.

In recent years, internationally, we have

seen wide scale economic upheaval,

natural disasters, political uncertainty

and even terrorism. At the same time

we have seen the knowledge economy

coming to the fore and the Internet and

technology driving most of what we do.

South Africa is certainly no exception.

We also have unique challenges,

mostly related to the economy, such as

unemployment and the power supply crisis.

In all of this, until last year, our

tourism industry has shown significant

and steady growth. But this has come

to a grinding halt and our challenge

in this new decade is huge.

Much has been said about the value

of the business events industry to South

Africa, especially over the past 20 years,

as we started flexing our proverbial

muscle, demonstrating that we can

host some of the largest international

events, perfectly and seamlessly.

But as our business events industry

matures, we have come to realise

that it is much more than just a form

of tourism – that it is now a key

component of the knowledge economy.

Business events can be a game changer

in the global economy and make a

difference in the lives of people.

This is what we must achieve in

South Africa. To do this, it is imperative

that we understand the value chain

of the business events sector, so

that we can identify and develop

enterprise development opportunities.

In this context, youth involvement

and succession planning is central.

At SAACI, as any good corporate

citizen should, we are embracing

these challenges head-on.

At our board’s strategic session late

last year we formulated a plan to give

shape to this, based on our pillars

‘learning, growth and collaboration’.

In 2020, above all, we will focus on

nurturing established and building new

stakeholder relationships. We need to

know who does what, where synergy

exists and where forces should be joined.

To understand the industry better,

we will continuously research and

communicate new trends in the industry.

To accurately determine the value of

business events in South Africa, we will

roll out a comprehensive industry study

involving all relevant stakeholders.

All this, of course, will be underpinned by

a fresh SAACI marketing campaign, of which

our annual congress will form an integral

part. I believe you will agree that this year’s

congress theme, ‘Welcoming the unknown’,

could not be more timely and apt.

I appeal to everyone in the business

events sector – join SAACI in taking hands

to embrace the new decade and to ensure

that we take our rightful place in the

South African economy and future.

THE ASSOCIATION

FOR CONFERENCE

INDUSTRY LEADERS

CONNECT SAACI unites , supports and educates the business

events industry in southern Africa by creating sustainable environment

for business growth

THRIVE Join SAACI and enjoy access to an inspiring

network of industry professionals, while giving your business the

professional status it needs to attract the attention of business leaders.

GROW Become the business events professional you’ve always

wanted to be. Access the SAACI Academy and enter a world of inspiration,

connections and world-class skills development.

Visit our online community:

www.saaci.org

www.saacicongress.org

www.saaci-academy.org

+27(0)11 880 5883

info@saaci.org


EXSA NEWS

Trending for 2020

What can we expect in creativity and design?

By Gill Gibbs, executive committee member of EXSA

Everything influences design – from visual images to concept ideas, from abstract thoughts and

sketches to architecture, from life experience to personal taste, everything that we do, that we

experience and everything that we are, has an influence on how our designs will be formed and presented.

Our industry has an array of different

designers with creative, innovative

and different solutions and

styles. In the exhibition and events industry,

everything on display will have degrees

of visual, sensory and movement impact

on the user. It makes perfect sense then

that keeping up with trends and influences

that impact user experience (UX)

is key to exhibition and event success.

Peter Morville, a pioneer in the UX field

with many published bestsellers, cites

seven elements that describe the user

experience: credible, desirable, valuable,

accessible, findable, useful, and usable.

Interestingly, in 2018, the Harris Poll (market

research) conducted a study of U.S. millennials

and found that 78 per cent would rather

spend money on a “desirable experience or

event, over buying something desirable.”

Taking the above elements into context for

the exhibition and events industry, the Adobe

creative trends forecast for 2020 includes:

Visual trends

• Age relevance: We will see visual narrative

that depicts vitality and health,

from the youth-centric age 18-35 to that

of wider aged audiences, representing

mature crowds as relevant figures that are

vibrant, unique and high-energy people.

• Expressive: People becoming increasingly

public with their emotions where they want

to see more of this inclusivity of all facets

of life experiences through social media.

• Standing out: Beauty is being reimagined,

where authentic self-expression is prominent.

• Community: People increasingly coming

together to support causes and campaigns.

Motion trends

• Environmental documentary – brands

will be using documentary film style

to portray the challenges and possible

future due to climate change.

• Movement response – social media videos

are to progress with interactive graphics

that respond to movement, attracting

viewers and increasing engagement.

• Liquid abstract – forms are to be

introduced that are natural and organic,

leading to freely-flowing shapes

with powerful curves, creating dynamic

and fluid compositions.

• Neon glow – creating dynamic energy

and seen in television series, music

videos, games, and social videos.

Design trends

• Handmade humanism – craving a natural

touch, artists create ‘an emotionally

approachable style that is notable through

its simplicity and handcrafted tone.’

• Art deco – visual elements that appeal

to the nostalgic, with vintage styles

reworked to incorporate futuristic details

whilst retaining their decorative appeal.

• Semi-surreal – fantasy meets vibrant

new perspectives across all mediums

where designers and artists will implement

new tools and techniques to create the

impossible and alter our vision, inspiring

curiosity across global audiences.

• Modern gothic – a contrast between

analogue and digital elements, featuring

the dark and dramatic with visionary futuristic

materials, mood lighting, industrial

influences, and striking typography.

Wherever the trends may lead, 2020

will prove to be an interesting and creative

start to the new decade.

E: info@exsa.co.za

T: +27 10 300 7907

www.exsa.co.za

AAXO NEWS

Education and training are at the core of

AAXO’s focus for 2020

By Projeni Pather, chairperson of AAXO

In a rapidly shifting business environment, AAXO believes that our members need

to be ahead of the game to deliver exceptional service, innovative platforms and

organisational excellence.

As part of our mission to invest

in our members, we are proud

to deliver two new programmes

that will enhance our contribution

to training and development for the

industry, the IAEE Certified in Exhibition

Management (CEM) programme and the

AAXO Education Masterclasses. These

courses are valuable to both supplier and

organiser employees who are keen on

uplifting their professional development.

Our global partnership with the

International Association of Exhibition and

Events (IAEE) allows us the opportunity

to raise the professional standards of our

workforce with internationally accredited

skills and earn the status of CEM. There are

over 3 000 active CEM’s around the world

that have earned this premier mark of

professional accomplishment in exhibitions

and events. The CEM programme is made

up of a comprehensive curriculum, which is

composed of 8 modules that are essential

for exhibition and events management.

• Strategic planning and management

• Finance, budgeting and contracts

• Exhibition and event sales

• Event marketing

• Event operations

• Conference and meeting management

• Consumer show management

• Security, risk and crisis management

In addition to CEM, our AAXO Masterclass

Programme, which is a series of courses

for mid- to senior-level professionals will

provide attendees with an active tool

kit filled with essential information and

strategies to manage any challenge in

the exhibition and event space. These

short courses, in the form of half-day

sessions, allow for an open exchange

of ideas to discover solutions that

guide new strategies and policies.

• March – Legally speaking: Understand

your legal rights and obligation when

it comes to POPIA, Intellectual Property,

Trademarks and Competition Law.

• May – Sponsorship management:

Tackle the challenges of corporate

sponsorship by developing best

practices in sponsorship execution.

• July – Social media for event

marketing: Learn the art of effectively

managing your social media strategy to

attract delegates/visitors to your event.

• September – Mediabuying and

new media: Learn to analyse the

data offered by media houses to

enable you to buy the most effective

platforms for event marketing.

• November – Leadership and

management: Learn to tap into your

brain using neuroscience methodologies

to create permanent change so

you can create team synergy.

All courses are open to anyone who is

keen on developing their skills in the

exhibition and events space. Due to the

popularity of the classes, registration will

be allocated on a first-come, first-served

basis. Please note that AAXO members will

receive a preferential registration fee.

For more information contact

Molebogeng Masote on mole@aaxo.co.za.

aaxo@aaxo.co.za | www.aaxo.co.za | 011 465 8955

SITE NEWS

SITE Southern Africa chapter

goes continental

SITE (Society of Incentive Travel Excellence) Southern Africa chapter has been rebranded to Site Africa, the

decision was made at the Site International Board of Directors member meeting held at IMEX America in Las

Vegas at the end of 2019. The motivation to rebrand was put forward by the SITE Southern Africa chapter.

SITE is based in Chicago and

is the only fully-international

association that has a specific focus

on incentive travel. It has more than

2 300 members in 90 countries with 30

chapters worldwide. By rebranding to

SITE Africa, it no longer excludes current

and potential members from other

African countries. Key objectives for this

critical change include the following:

• Inclusion for all other African

companies involved in the MICE

travel sector to become part of

the international SITE family.

• Creating better access to

education, including workshops,

networking events and certification

programs. (CIS & CITP).

• Providing international support and

mentorship for developing companies.

• Creating a platform for learning

across borders and cultures, providing

opportunities for inter-action to

facilitate skills and experience transfer.

• Local, regional and international

networking opportunities.

• Growth by collaboration.

• Meetings Africa participation on the

SITE Pavilion, with access to more than

140 qualified international buyers.

What we’re all about: motivational experiences

Why we do it? Business results!

Site is the only global network of travel and event professionals committed to motivational

experiences that deliver business results.

Site provides insights and connections that inspire the utilisation of this powerful tool

across diverse industries, regions and cultures.

Site serves as a source of knowledge and best practices where members can make

personal connections that sustain professional growth.

Only one organisation sits at the critical intersection between those who seek

the benefits of motivational tools and those who can provide these extraordinary

experiences. That organisation is Site...

Contact

Email: info@sitesouthernafrica.com

www.sitesouthernafrica.com

www.siteglobal.com

SITE NEWS

• Finding and developing leadership

in the region with the view of

appointing future board members.

• Create regional steering committees

to assist with regional SITE events.

• Identify needs and assist with

the development of incentive

travel experiences and product in

various regions, as required.

• Youth development programmes,

including possible attendance of

the Young Leadership conference

in Las Vegas in 2020.

• Access to Developing Membership

for 2020 – great discount off

regular membership fees.

Tes Proos, president of the new SITE

Africa chapter, said the news was very

well received and SITE Africa is positive

that renewed energy will follow which

may forge cross-border relationships

around the continent which will bring

about better understanding of the

business events traveller demands

and collaboration among countries

to enhance their experience.

Ms Proos stated that SITE has

already engaged with leaders in key

African regions and have identified

highly motivated personalities who

are keen to take incentive travel to

the next level. “It is a long-term

project and we are super-excited by

the enthusiasm we have experienced

from players around the continent.”

“In addition, succession planning

is key. We need to identify young

leaders within our communities

to ensure they receive the best

mentorship and exposure possible

to lead the way into the future

of incentive travel,” she said.

We would like all destination

management companies, tour

operators and PCO’s across Africa

to join as SITE Africa members.

The good news is that new African

members may join as a developing

Breakfast at Lake Elmenteita, Kenya.

member at a hugely discounted rate

of $200 (plus a once-off joining

fee of $50). This membership is

valid for two years and runs from

January through to December.”

See the benefits of joining at https://www.

siteglobal.com/page/join. This page will

also take you to the online membership

application, where the entire application

and payment may be done online. There

is also an option to request an invoice

for those who would prefer to do a bank

transfer.

ADVERTISERS’ INDEX

January 2020 Vol 40 No 1

ADVERTISER PAGE EMAIL WEBSITE

AAXO 30 aaxo@aaxo.co.za www.aaxo.co.za

EXSA 29 exsa@exsa.co.za www.exsa.co.za

Fancourt 16-17 reservations@fancourt.co.za www.fancourt.co.za

GL Events 24-25 info.za@gl-events.com www.gl-events.co.za | www.gl-events.com

Hostex inserts shalanev@specialised.com www.hostex.co.za

Indaba Hotel OFC, 6-8 indaba@indabahotel.co.za www.indabahotel.co.za

MJunxion 4 yolande@mjunxion.co.za www.mjunxion.co.za

Plaslope 33 plaslope@plaslope.com www.plaslope.com

SAACI 28 info@saaci.org www.saaci.org

SITE 31 info@sitesouthernafrica.com www.sitesouthernafrica.com

South Africa National Convention

Bureau

9-12 convention@southafrica.net www.businessevents.southafrica.net

Umthunzi Hotel 18-19 reservations@umthunzi.co.za www.umthunzi.co.za



CALENDAR

Conferences, workshops and exhibitions of

interest to the conference, exhibition and special

events market

For free entries in this calendar, please supply information to editorial@businesseventsafrica.com

LOCAL: 2020

31 JANUARY 2020

3rd Annual AAXO ROAR Awards

Venue: Gallagher Convention Centre

www.facebook.com/

events/1020534915005398/

24-26 FEBRUARY 2020

Meetings Africa

Venue: Sandton Convention Centre,

Johannesburg

Tel: +27 11 895 3000

Email: convention@southafrica.net


1-3 MARCH 2020

Hostex 2020: Africa’s Food, Drink &

Hospitality Trade Expo

Venue: Sandton Convention Centre

Organiser: Specialised Exhibitions

Montgomery

Tel: +27 (0)11 835 1565

www.hostex.co.za

2-4 APRIL 2020

ILTM Africa

Venue: Moyo, Kirstenbosch National

Botanical Garden, Rhodes Dr, Newlands,

Tel: +44 (0)20 82712129

Email: iltm.helpline@reedexpo.co.uk

www.iltm.com/africa/

6 APRIL 2020

World Travel Market Africa

Venue: Cape Town International Convention

Centre

Tel: +44 (0)20 82712120

www.africa.wtm.com

6 APRIL 2020

ibtm AFRICA

Venue: Cape Town International

Convention Centre

Tel: +44 (0)20 8271 2180

www.ibtmafrica.com

7-8 APRIL 2020

African Tourism Investment Summit (ATIS)

Venue: Cape Town International

Convention Centre

Tel: +27(0)11 549 8300

Email: megan.oberholzer@

reedexpoafrica.co.za

https://africa.wtm.com/en/

Sessions/76207/African-Tourism-

Investment-Summit-Registration

11 MAY 2020

Africa’s Travel Indaba Bonday

Venue: Durban ICC, Durban, South Africa

Tel: +27 (0)11 476 5104

Email: exhibitor@indaba-southafrica.co.za

www.indaba-southafrica.co.za

12-14 MAY 2020

Africa’s Travel Indaba

Venue: Durban ICC, Durban, South Africa

Tel: +27 (0)11 476 5104

Email: exhibitor@indaba-southafrica.co.za

www.indaba-southafrica.co.za

21-22 JULY 2020

The Promo Product Expo

Venue: Sandton Convention Centre,

Johannesburg, South Africa

Tel: +27 (0)11 835 1565

www.thepromoproductexpo.co.za

INTERNATIONAL: 2020

22-24 JANUARY 2020

ACE of M.I.C.E. Exhibition by Turkish

Airlines

Venue: Istanbul, Turkey

Tel: +31 20 342 0232

https://ameistanbul.com

24-27 JANUARY

SITE Global Conference

Venue: Vancouver, Canada

www.siteglobal.com/page/site-globalconference

18-26 MARCH 2020

Eventex Awards and Creative Week

Online ceremony

Email: hey@eventex.co

www.eventex.co

19-22 APRIL 2020

World Travel Market Dubai

Venue: Dubai World Trade Centre

Tel: +44 (0)20 8271 2158

www. arabiantravelmarket.wtm.com

15-17 SEPTEMBER 2020

IMEX AMERICA

Venue: Sands Expo, Las Vegas, USA

Tel: +44 1273 227311

www.imexamerica.com

TAMPER EVIDENT SECURITY BAGS

• Debasafe® Tamper Evident Security Bags are used whenever tamper-evident

movement is critical.

• We manufacture to order and assist in tailor-made solutions to suit your security

needs.

• A comprehensive range of security features are standard on the bags and additional

features can be added.

• The sealing strip is used for exacting demands with a heat indicator displaying

attempts to tamper.

• Tampering by means of cold, heat, solvents, liquids & manipulation is clearly visible.

• Bags can be customised according to customer’s requirements with exclusive

numbering & bar-coding.

• Bags are manufactured in either transparent or opaque LDPE film, in various grades

to meet specific requirements.

CHERYL

TEL:

MUHLENBERG

+27 11 452 1115

FAX:

TEL:

+27

+27

11 452

11 452

3609

1115

WEBSITE: www.plaslope.com

FAX: +27 11 452 3609

EMAIL: glenda.aereboe@plaslope.com

WEBSITE: www.plaslope.com

EMAIL: plaslope@plaslope.com

The bags are used for the safe movement of:

• Government Departments

• Foreign Exchange

• Confidential Documents (Examinations, Elections,

Passports, Visas etc.)

• High Value Items (Diamonds, Precious Metals,

Forensic Evidence, Cellphones, Computer Equipment)

• Cash (Banks & Cash-in-Transit companies)


DIRECTORY

ASSOCIATION OF AFRICAN

EXHIBITION ORGANISERS

aaxo

46 Waterford Office Park

Waterford Drive

Fourways

Johannesburg

t: +27 (0)11 465 8955

e: aaxo@aaxo.co.za

Association coordinator:

Molebegeng Masote

Chairperson: Projeni Pather

Exposure Marketing

Vice-chairperson: Phetogo Kubheka

Synergy Business Events

Treasurer: Mark Anderson

Specialised Exhibitions Montgomery

Board members:

Chanelle Hingston, Spintelligent

Devi Paulson-Abbott, DMG Events

Dee Reuvers, SA Confex

Leatitia van Straten, Reed Exhibitions

COUNCIL OF EVENTS

PROFESSIONALS AFRICA

Secretariat Office

Melanie Sillince

e: melanie@cepa.co.za

t: +27 (0)83 653 2480

+27 (0)11 462 4014

www.cepa.co.za

EXCO

Chairperson: Glenn van Eck

Magnetic Storm

e: glenn@cepa.co.za

Vice-chairperson: Gift Luthuli

Gintan Luthuli Associates

e: gift@cepa.co.za

Treasurer: Sue Gannon

EXSA Academy

e: sue@cepa.co.za

EVENT GREENING FORUM

179 Jan Smuts Ave, Parktown North,

Private Bag X7000, Parklands 2121

t: +27 (0)11 447 4777

e: info@eventgreening.co.za

www.eventgreening.co.za

Chairperson: Greg McManus

Vice-chairperson: Neo Mohlatlole

EXHIBITIONS AND

EVENTS ASSOCIATION OF

SOUTHERN AFRICA

EXSA OFFICE

www.exsa.co.za

Chairperson: Doug Rix

t: +27 (0)82 579 7071

e: dougrix@wol.co.za

Vice-chairperson: Gill Gibbs

t: +27 (0) 83 260 8035

e: gill@blu3.co.za

Treasurer: Moses Nefale

t: +27 (0)79 882 8616

e: moses@scandisplay.co.za

Association manager:

Lee-Ann Alder

t: +27 (0)82 550 0349

e: info@exsa.co.za

Board members

Chad Botha

t: +27 (0)61 497 2945

e: chad@inspirefurniture.co.za

Adele Hartdegen

t: +27 (0)82 464 8702

e: adele.hartdegen@gl-events.com

Gabi Babinszky

t: +27 (0)64 655 3323

e: gabi@brandexpro.co.za

Cara Nortman

t: +27 (0)79 254 9572

e: cara@ssqdesign.co.za

Kerry Brannigan

t: +27 (0)72 265 6600

e: kerry@brilliant-branding.co.za

Mike Mira

t: +27 (0)83 445 2261

e: mike@efam.co.za

Gary Van der Watt

t: +27 (0)76 339 5320

e: gary@resourcedesign.co.za

INTERNATIONAL CONGRESS &

CONVENTION ASSOCIATION

ICCA African Chapter

Chairperson: Lindiwe Rakharebe,

Durban International Convention

Centre

t: +27 (0)31 360 1000

e: LindiweR@icc.co.za

Deputy chairperson: Nana Gecaga

Kenyatta International Convention

Centre

t: +254 20 326 1000

e: md@kicc.co.ke

Secretariat:

Esmaré Steinhöfel

ICCA Africa Regional director

c: +27 (0)84 056 5544

e: esmare.s@iccaworld.org.

www.iccaworld.com/dbs/

africanchapter

www.iccaworld.com

SOUTHERN AFRICAN

ASSOCIATION FOR THE

CONFERENCE INDUSTRY


BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Chairperson:

Kim Roberts

Mise-en-place Solutions

e: info@mise-en-placesolutions.com

c: +27 (0)82 652 2008

Vice-chairperson:

Jaques Fouche

Formative

e: jaques@formative.co.za

c: +27 (0)60 993 7542

Treasurer:

Glenn van Eck

Magnetic Storm

e: glenn@magnetic.co.za

c: +27 (0)82 800 2616

Public officer:

Denise Kemp

Eastern Sun Events

e: denise@esternsun.co.za

c: +27 (0)82 654 9755

Chief executive officer:

Glenton De Kock

e: ceo@saaci.org

c: +27 (0)82 575 7565

DIRECTORS

EC chairperson: Andrew Stewart

PeriExpo

e: andrew@periexpo.co.za

c: +27 (0)82 578 5987

KZN chairperson: Tracey Delport

The Hospitality Experience

e: tracey@thehospitality

experience.co.za

c: +27 (0)83 293 5190

JHB chairperson: Lorin Bowen

Lorin Bowen Business Events

e: lorin@lorinbowen.co.za

c: + 27 (0)82 433 8687

WC acting chairperson:

Angela Lorimer

Century City Conference Centre

e: angela.l@ccconferencecentre.co.za

t: +27 (0)21 809 1101

Tshwane chairperson: Leon Pheiffer

EPH Productions

e: leon@ephproductions.co.za

c: + 27 (0)82 924 9046

Co-opted youth: Minister Kganyago

CSIR

MKganyago@csir.co.za

c: +27 (0)79 513 8708

Venue rep: Michelle Bingham

Sandton Convention Centre

e: Michelle.Bingham@tsogosun.com

c: +27 (0)82 339 0342

EASTERN CAPE

Branch chairperson:

Andrew Stewart

PeriExpo

e: andrew@periexpo.co.za

c: +27 (0)82 578 5987

Branch vice-chairperson:

David Limbert

Magnetic Storm

e: david@magnetic.co.za

c: +27 (0)82 9064 198

Branch treasurer: Alistair Stead

Scan Display

e: alastair@scandisplay.africa

c: +27 (0)73 236 6618

COMMITTEE:

Learning: Caroline Morgan

EXBO

e: caro@exbo.co.za

c: +27 (0)82 553 6185

Communication: Gill Dickie

Bidvest Car Rental

e: gilld@bidvestcarrental.co.za

c: +27 (0)79 527 7619

Networking: Melissa Palmer

B & E Conference Centre

e: melissa@becbc.co.za

c: +27 (0)82 437 7600

Networking: Oumi El-Kindly

Demi Guard

e: oumi@demiguard.co.za

Networking: Wanda Fourie

Eastern Sun Events

e: registration@easternsun.co.za

Branch coordinator:

Hayley Pretorius

e: ec.za@saaci.org

c: +27 (0)79 507 3607

c: +27 (0)62 758 7933

JOHANNESBURG

Branch chairperson:

Lorin Bowen

Lorin Bowen Business Events

c: +27 (0)82 433 8687

e: lorin@lorinbowen.co.za


Michelle Bingham

Sandton Convention Centre

c: +27 (0)82 339 0342

e: michelle.bingham@tsogosun.com

Branch treasurer: Manuela Gomes

Cullinan Holding

c: +27 (0)81 359 6558

e: manuela@ikapacoaches.co.za

COMMITTEE:

Aidan Koen

Ogada Group

c: +27 (0)82 561 3188

e: aidan@ogada.co.za

Brad Montgomery

Ultimate Data Sciences

c: +27 (0)72 800 5857

e: brad@ultimatedata.co.za

Brendan Vogt

Guvon Hotels & Spas

c: +27 (0)83 709 0480

e: brendan@guvon.co.za

Carmen Rudd

Synergy Business Events

c: +27 (0)82 707 3977

e: carmen@synergybe.co.za

Chad Botha

Inspire Furniture Rentals

c: +27 (0)87 470 0670

e: chad@inspirefurniture.co.za

John Arvanitakis

Chatr’ Experiences

c: +27 (0)83 415 2774

e: john@chatr.co.za

Minister Kganyago

CSIR

c: +27 (0)79 513 8708

e: mkganyago@csir.co.za



DIRECTORY

Rendani Khorommbi

Joburg Tourism

c: +27 (0)82 773 2999

e: rendanik@joburgtourism.com

Ruth Baldwin

Contact Publications

c: +27 (0)72 897 6752

e: ruth@businesseventsafrica.com

Branch coordinator:

Angelique Smith

c: +27 (0)60 970 7653

e: Jhb.za@saaci.org

TSHWANE

Branch chairperson: Leon Pheiffer

EPH & Monte de Dios

e: leon@ephproductions.co.za;

e: leon@montededios.co.za

c: +27 (0)82 924 9046


Corné Engelbrecht

Savetcon

e: corne@savetcon.co.za

c: +27 (0)82 925 9241

Branch treasurer:

Refilwe Nchebisang

CSIR ICC

e: rnchebisang@csir.co.za

c: +27 (0)12 841 3770

COMMITTEE:

Melanie Pretorius

Hospitality Zone

e: melanie.pretorius@mweb.co.za

c: +27 (0)82 410 1202

Herkie du Preez

Event Wizards

e: herkie@eventwizards.co.za

c: +27 (0)82 839 3489

Branch coordinator:

Heather Heskes

SAACI

e: tsh.za@saaci.org

c: +27 (0)76 321 6111

KWAZULU-NATAL

Branch chairperson: Tracey Delport

The Hospitality Experience

e: tracey@thehospitality

experience.co.za

c:+27 (0)83 293 5190


Tarannum Banatwalla

Jellyfish Catering & Event

Management

e: tarannum@jellyfishcatering.co.za

c: +27 (0)83 254 9462

Branch treasurer: Kim Jackson

Greyville Convention Centre

e: kimj@goldcircle.co.za

c: +27 (0)82 378 2264

COMMITTEE:

Vicki Hooper

Venues for Conferences in Africa

e: vicki@venues.co.za

c: +27 (0)83 256 8120

Mabuyi Mosia

Ikhono Communications cc

e: mabuyi@ikhono.co.za

c: +27 (0)71 117 7509

Irene Vallihu

Durban International

Convention Centre

e: IreneV@icc.co.za

c: +27 (0)79 692 4604

Branch coordinator:

Kerry Potgieter

c: +27 (0)84 777 3452

e: kzn.za@saaci.org

WESTERN CAPE

Acting branch chairperson:

Angela Lorimer

Century City Conference Centre

e: angela.l@ccconferencecentre.co.za

t: +27 (0)21 809 1101

Branch treasurer:

Thiru Naidoo

Wesgro

e: thiru@wesgro.co.za

t: +27 (0)21 487 8600

COMMITTEE:

Jaques Fouche

Formative

e: jaques@formative.co.za

c: +27 (0)60 993 7542

Esmare Steinhofel, ICCA

e: esmare.s@iccaworld.org

c: +27 (0)84 056 5544

Esti Venske, CPUT

e: venskee@cput.ac.z

t: +27 (0)21 460 3518

Cindy Buser, Mirchee

e: cindy@mirchee.co.za

c: +27 (0)21 705 7338

Zimkitha Bavuma, CPUT

e: zim@live.co.za

Zandri Swartz

Century City Convention Centre

e: zandri.s@ccconferencecentre.co.za

c: +27 (0)21 204 8000

Andrew Gibson

Magnetic Storm

e: andrew@magnetic.co.za

t: 0860 111 625

Adele Martiz

CTICC

e: adele@cticc.co.za

t: +27 (0)21 410 5000

Ansu Colditz

XL Millennium

e: ansuc@millenniumtravel.co.za

c: +27 (0)82 457 8071

Alex Wrottesley

Into Africa

e: alex@intoafrica.co.za

t: +27 (0)21 430 2060

Branch coordinator:

Lara van Zyl

e: wc.za@saaci.org

c: +27 (0)82 223 4684

SOCIETY FOR INCENTIVE

TRAVEL EXCELLENCE

President: Tes Proos

e: tes@crystalevents.co.za

c: +27 (0) 84 682 7676

International board member:

Daryl Keywood

e: daryl@walthers.co.za

c: +27 (0)82 904 4967

Treasurer:

Peter-John

Mitrovich

e: peter-john.mitrovich@

grosvenortours.com

c: +27 (0)82 318 1889

Board member at large: Rick Taylor

East Africa (Rwanda): Chris Munyao

North Africa: George Fawzi

North Africa support: Brad Glen

Young Leadership: Clinton Els

Secretariat & Events:

Gauteng: Clare Neall

c: +27 76 898 0420

e: clare@eventstuff.co.za

Western Cape: Mariaan Burger

e: info@sitesouthernafrica.com

c: +27 (0)82 557 8041

OTHER ASSOCIATIONS

OF INTEREST

ABTA – African Business Travel

Association

Box 2594, Pinegowrie, 2123

t: +27 (0)11 888 8178

c: +27 (0)83 679 2110

e: monique@abta.co.za

www.abta.co.za

Founder: Monique Swart

ASATA – Association of Southern

African Travel Agents

PO Box 650539, Benmore, 2010

t: +27 (0)11 293 0560/61

e: barbara@asata.co.za

e: general@asata.co.za

Office manager: Barbara Viljoen

FEDHASA National Office –

Federated Hospitality Association of

Southern Africa

PO Box 3853, The Reeds, 0157

t: +27 (0)12 771 5568

c: + 27 (0)82 552 9862

e: ceo@fedhasa.co.za

www.fedhasa.co.za

Chief executive: Tshifhiwa

Tshivhengwa

PSASA – Professional Speakers

Association of Southern Africa

t: +27 (0)11 462 9465

c: +27 (0)83 458 6114

e: admin@psasouthernafrica.co.za

www.psasouthernafrica.co.za

SABOA – Southern African Bus

Operators Association

Postnet Suite 393, Private Bag X033,

Rivonia 2128

t: +27 (0)11 511 7641

e: saboa@saboa.co.za

www.saboa.co.za

SACIA – Southern African

Communications Industries Association

96 The Bridles, Douglas Crescent,

Sundowner, 2188

t: +27 (0)11 083 6418

c: +27 (0)82 555 5556

e: kevan@sacia.org.za

Executive director: Kevan Jones

SATI – South African Translators’

Institute

Executive director: Marion Boers

t: +27 (0)11 803 2681

e: office@translators.org.za

www.translators.org.za

SATSA – Southern Africa Tourism

Services Association

Box 900, Ferndale 2160

t: +27 (0)11 886 9996

e: pa@satsa.co.za | www.satsa.com

SKAL International South Africa

Secretary: Anne Lamb

t: +27 (0)21 434 7023

c: +27 (0)82 708 1836

e: anne@yebo.co.za

www.skalsouthafrica.org

STA – Sandton Tourism Association

t: +27 (0)83 558 5445

e: secretariat@sandtontourism.com

www.sandtontourism.com

TBCSA – Tourism Business Council of

South Africa

Box 11655, Centurion 0046

t: +27 (0)12 664 0120

e: comms@tbcsa.travel

www.tbcsa.travel | www.tomsa.co.za

Member relations manager:

Boitumelo Moleleki

TGCSA – Tourism Grading Council of

South Africa

Private Bag X10012, Sandton 2146

t: +27 (0)11 895 3000

f: +27 (0)11 895 3001

e: enquiries@tourismgrading.co.za

TINSA – Interpreters/Translators

Network of Southern Africa

e: info@interpreter.org.za

t/f: +27 (0)11 485 2511

c: +27 (0)83 249 0010

www.interpreter.org.za

TPSA – Technical Production

Services Association

96 The Bridles, Douglas Crescent,

Sundowner, 2188

t: +27 (0)11 083 6418

c: +27 (0)82 555 5556

e: kevan@sacia.org.za

www.tpsa.co.za

Executive director: Kevan Jones

TTA – Tshwane Tourism Association

Box 395, Pretoria 0001

t: +27 (0)12 841 4212

e: secretary@tshwanetourism.com

www.tshwanetourism.com

Chairperson: Bronwen Cadle de Ponte

Secretary: Sithembile Nzimande

Membership coordinator:

Liz Oosthuysen

e: membership@tshwanetourism.com


THE LAST WORD

Africa: Business events

outlook towards 2020

By Rick Taylor, Business Tourism Company

Africa is 30.2 million km 2 in size and home to 15 per cent of the world’s population, an estimated 1.2

billion people in 2019. Sub-Saharan Africa is the youngest region in the world with a median age of 19.5

compared to 38 in the US, 43 in the EU and 47 in Japan. It is estimated that 20 million young people will

be joining the workforce every year for the next three decades (Africa Center for Economic Transformation).

Against the aspirations of the

African Union’s Agenda 2063

(a plan for transformation

that aims for a peaceful, integrated

and prosperous continent by 2063),

Africa’s tourism competitiveness is

increasing as destinations scale up

their development agendas specifically

into the business events sector.

Africa is under-performing in world

business events arrivals, recording

only three per cent of international

association meetings in 2018, and six

per cent of international organisation

and association meetings according

to ICCA and UIA respectively. This is

supported by Events Industry Council

What is the Business Tourism Company?

that records only 5.3 per cent of

global business events participants and

2.2 per cent of global direct spend in

Africa in 2017 (according to Global

Economic Significance of Business Events

– EIC and Oxford Economics 2018.)

Liberalising air transport and further

relaxation of visa rules, easier currency

convertibility, Afro-optimism and business

events infrastructure development outside

of South Africa is mushrooming. Worldclass

convention centres and global

branded hotels with meeting capabilities

are fast appearing on skylines in Kampala,

Nairobi, Kigali, Addis Ababa and beyond.

Africa’s middle class is expanding most

rapidly which is drawing interest from

The Business Tourism Company is an international African-based consultancy. Rick Taylor

is the strategic architect of five Convention Bureaus’ in Africa and more than 70 diverse

tourism projects across South Africa, Namibia, Rwanda, Tanzania, Ethiopia, Uganda,

Cameroon, Zambia, Togo and the Middle East – among others internationally. Colette Taylor

brings technical skills in marketing, event organisation and product development to TBTC.

manufacturers of consumer goods where

a strong buyer and seller market is a

key demand driver for exhibitions.

What has been missing in Africa is

a comprehension of the technicalities

required by convention bureaus as

brokers of innovation to deliver the

economic value and institutional legacies

of business events. Our top trend for

2020 is the rise of East Africa as the

next market-ready region for meetings,

incentives, conferences, events and

exhibitions (MICE). Kigali was ranked the

#2 city in Africa by ICCA 2018, Uganda

launched its National Convention Bureau

in 2018 whilst Kenya, and Ethiopia are

ones to watch in 2020 as they formalise

their MICE strategies and scale up

their National Convention Bureaus. On

the back of the growth in convention

bureaus, above average demand for

meetings and events in Africa will grow.

As an industry, the focus is on the

economic, social and environmental

legacy benefits of business events. This

must be extended to include enhancing

skills development in Africa’s bright

young graduates. Knowledge must be

purposefully dispersed to ensure that

the business events sector helps meet

the future professional development

aspirations of our youth. Global

meeting and incentive buyers must be

encouraged through harder working

messaging to step outside their comfort

zones and explore new experiences

awaiting their delegates in Africa.

If there is one thing we are sure

about; it is that Africa can achieve

the future it aspires to. Let’s shine

the light on Africa as the best choice

for that next meeting … together

driving social change, creating a lasting

legacy and growing job opportunities

for our talented future leaders.



OPEN FOR

B

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Business Events Africa has been the voice of the business events industry in southern Africa

for the past 39 years. This trusted source of information keeps readers up-to-date with the most

relevant news, trends, interviews, destination features, venue showcases and local association

news and resources. Business Events Africa is also known for having the most comprehensive

directory of venues, service providers, speakers and conference organisers in Africa.

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PO Box 414, Kloof 3640, South Africa

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Email: contact@contactpub.co.za

Voice of the Business Events Industry in Africa

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Business Events Africa - Vol 40 No 01 - January 2020

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