Industry leaders gather at EDGE Venues Summer Conference to debate the future of meetings and events

EDGE Venues welcomed more than 160 agents, hotel groups, suppliers, and event professionals to the Crowne Plaza Stratford-upon-Avon on 4–5 September for its annual Summer Conference. The two-day programme brought together the full spectrum of industry voices to share knowledge, explore challenges, and debate the trends shaping the future of meetings and events.

Jacqui Kavanagh, CEO of EDGE Venues, said:

“EDGE Venues is about more than connecting people with spaces, we’re shaping the future of our industry. This conference has shown the power of collaboration and vision. By embracing technology, reimagining experiences, and investing in people, we are not just responding to change, we are leading it.”

The conference opened with the Agency Tech Summit, where 50 agency professionals gathered for deep-dive discussions on artificial intelligence, collaboration, and commercialisation. The sessions looked at how AI can enhance rather than replace expertise, with conversations focusing on how to harness innovation while ensuring accuracy, security, and professional value remain central.

EDGE also showcased how its platform is helping agencies tackle one of their biggest challenges, limited venue knowledge, by unlocking smarter tools, providing greater transparency, and supporting agencies in their role as trusted consultants to clients.

The second day began with a private breakfast meeting for more than 30 hotel groups, who were given a sneak peek of EDGE Groups, set to launch later this year. The session highlighted how hotels can strengthen partnerships and tap into new business opportunities through EDGE.

The focus then widened to the main conference, where over 160 delegates attended multiple panel sessions covering critical themes for the sector. Key topics included market resilience, the importance of innovation and agility, and how to elevate customer experience through both service and technology.

Panellists emphasised the need for venues to adapt to evolving delegate expectations, from addressing infrastructure challenges such as EV charging points to preparing for compliance with Martyn’s Law. Sessions also explored how the industry can nurture the next generation of talent through graduate schemes and apprenticeships, as well as how strong leadership and communication can build resilience within teams.

Scott Ford, Managing Director of EDGE Venues commented:

“The event was designed with a clear purpose, to bring the varied audiences of EDGE together and demonstrate how the platform is supporting its users with tools, insights, and data-led solutions. Interactive polls held throughout the event helped steer panel conversational topics, ensuring discussions were both relevant and reflective of attendee priorities.”

The two-day programme closed with networking on the terrace, where guests enjoyed sunshine, a relaxed barbecue, and the chance to continue conversations.