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Event sector Martyn’s Law guidance via MIA, tube strikes, and more
September’s news highlights the adaptability and determination of the meetings and events sector, as leaders respond to political shifts, operational challenges and evolving audience expectations.
Here’s everything you need to know:
UKinbound welcomes new Tourism Minister Stephanie Peacock MP
UKinbound, the trade association for inbound tourism in the UK, has formally welcomed the appointment of Stephanie Peacock MP as the new Tourism Minister.
The move signals a fresh opportunity for closer alignment between policy and sector needs, especially given current challenges in attracting international visitors and improving the UK’s tourism competitiveness.
CN Agency Leaders Summit takeaways
At this year’s CN Agency Leaders Summit, delegates debated industry disruption, talent retention, hybrid models, sustainability and the future of ROI measurement. The event had five standout themes – agility, data-driven design, cross-sector collaboration, audience customisation, and resilience.
Read more via Conference News.
Following the summit, the organisers have published a full post-report, capturing insights, session highlights, delegate feedback and benchmarking metrics. It’s a helpful resource for those who couldn’t attend, or who want to revisit key learnings. Access it here.
London hospitality reels as tube strikes slash bookings by two-thirds
The hospitality sector in London took a heavy hit as tube strikes slashed bookings by up to two-thirds, during five consecutive days of strikes across the London Underground and the Docklands Light Railway this month.
Many venues saw last-minute cancellations and footfall fall sharply, underlining how dependent urban hospitality is on reliable public transport.
Read more via London Love Business.
Chancellor to tackle business rates cliff-edges
The Treasury has indicated a renewed focus on smoothing “cliff edges” in business rates, especially for smaller firms and those in transition zones. This could bring relief to many venues and event operators struggling with rate shocks as valuations shift.
Read more via Conference News.
MIA updates guidance to help venues prepare for Martyn’s Law
The Meetings Industry Association (MIA) has published updated guidance aimed at helping venues prepare for implementation of Martyn’s Law (a security regulation aimed at reducing risk at public venues).
The updates include practical advice on risk assessments, staff training, and emergency readiness.
MIA chief executive, Shonali Devereaux, said:
“The safety and security of everyone who engages with our venues must remain a top priority for our sector. As Martyn’s Law moves closer to becoming reality, we are committed to ensuring our members are well informed and equipped to act. This updated guidance provides a timely and practical framework for venues to assess their readiness, understand their likely responsibilities, and take meaningful steps towards compliance. As the legislation evolves and discussions progress, the MIA will remain at the forefront, keeping members informed and supported with continued guidance.”
Read more via Event Industry News.
Industry leaders debate future of meetings at EDGE Venues summer conference
The EDGE Venues summer conference brought together leaders across the venues and events space to talk future models, hybrid innovation, sustainability and the role of place in audience experience. The debates highlighted tensions between delivering flexibility and preserving unique physical experiences.
Read more via Event Industry News.
UK events see rise in eco-friendly sampling
According to SproutWorld, eco-friendly sampling, such as biodegradable packaging, seed-embedded materials, or recyclable promo items, is increasing at UK events.
The trend reflects greater pressure from event planners and their audiences for greener experiences.
Read more via Conference News.
The Business of Events welcomes Ian Murray MP as Minister of State for Creative Industries
In a further shift in the political interface with the events sector, The Business of Events has welcomed the appointment of Ian Murray MP as the new Minister of State for the Creative Industries.
Stakeholders see this as an opportunity to strengthen support for creative-led events and live performance infrastructure.’
Read more via Exhibition World.
Survey reveals widespread health impact on hospitality workers
A sobering new survey of over 350 hospitality workers found that 100% reported experiencing burnout at some point, with 45% unable to relax, 44% feeling anxiety, and 43% reporting sleep problems.
The emotional toll is evident with many workers also reporting frustration, low motivation and feeling overwhelmed.
Read more via Conference News.
Jigsaw Talent Solutions launches industry-first 12-month guarantee
Jigsaw Talent Solutions, the headhunting consultancy founded by Robert Kenward, has announced a 12-month guarantee on all assignments. The guarantee covers the full first year in role, replacing any hire who leaves within 12 months free of charge. Robert Kenward told M&IT:
“I’m part of the hiring team for my clients, not a transactional supplier. If I believe in my process, I should share the risk. So, I’m backing every placement for 12 months. This guarantee is by far the longest given by any recruiter in the events and marketing industry and is a testament to the level of detail and professionalism that I dedicate to every recruitment brief.”
Hospitality Action launches third workplace wellbeing guide
As industry pressures mounts Hospitality Action has released its third edition of a workplace wellbeing guide tailored for hospitality environments. The guide provides a roadmap for mental health support, managerial training, resilience-building and embedding culture change at venues.
Read more via Conference News.
View from the EDGE
EDGE Venues’ Managing Director, Scott Ford, summed up the latest monthly insights:
“This month’s news shows an industry balancing fresh challenges with real progress. Policy shifts like Martyn’s Law guidance and new ministerial appointments underline the need for resilience, while sustainability initiatives and wellbeing support remind us of our wider responsibilities.
“Together, these stories highlight a sector that’s evolving with purpose – innovating, adapting and putting people at the heart of its future.”
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