Strengthening the voice of the Meetings and Events sector at local, regional and national level

The events industry and policy – why government support matters

The events industry is a vital contributor to the UK economy, generating approximately £61 billion annually. Confidence in UK business meetings and events remains high with 61% of business forecasting higher revenue this year according to the recent MIA survey. Yet, despite its economic significance, just 6% of industry leaders feel supported by the government, often expressing frustration at the lack of government recognition. So, why does policy matter, and what can be done to ensure the sector has a stronger voice?

The EDGE Venues Winter Summit had a panel session led by EDGE Venues’ Marketing Director, Emily Butler, with fellow panellists, Andrew Mosley – MIA, Paul Colston – Mash Media and Robert Wright founder of the Business of Events and special advisor to the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Events, to discuss the need of government support.

The challenge – inconsistent engagement with government

One of the biggest hurdles facing the events industry is its inconsistent engagement with policymakers. Government ministers, advisors, and MPs frequently change, making it difficult to establish long-term relationships that lead to real policy action. Unlike other sectors with well-established lobbying groups, the events industry often struggles to present a unified front, making advocacy efforts less effective.

The need for a unified industry voice

A key takeaway from the discussion was the importance of industry cohesion. In the UK, various associations such as UKEVENTS, MIA and beam, represent different aspects of events, hospitality, and tourism, often with separate agendas. This fragmented approach weakens the industry’s voice, mixed priorities and ability to push for meaningful change.

In contrast, countries like Australia have successfully consolidated their industry bodies under a single umbrella organisation, leading to better government engagement. This model could provide valuable lessons for the UK events sector.

How government policy impacts events

Government policies have a direct effect on the industry’s growth. Recent tax increases, such as higher National Insurance contributions, air passenger duties, and VAT on event services, have added financial strain to businesses. Instead of developing growth, these measures have made it harder for companies to invest, expand, and recover from economic downturns.

What can be done?

For the industry to secure better government support, several key actions must be taken:

1. Align industry priorities. A clear, unified message on what the sector needs (e.g., tax reliefs, investment incentives, sustainability initiatives) will make lobbying efforts more effective.
2. Strengthen relationships with MPs and policymakers.  Industry leaders and venues can actively engage with their local representatives on unified messages to ensure events are on the governments and combined authority agendas.
3. Highlight the sector’s economic value. Policymakers respond to numbers, and the industry must continuously showcase its financial impact, job creation, and contribution to tourism.
4. Learn from international best practices. Following the lead of countries that have successfully positioned events as a strategic industry could help the UK secure better recognition and funding.

What next?

The UK events industry is a powerhouse that fuels the economy, yet it continues to be overlooked in policy discussions. By working together, aligning priorities, and proactively engaging with decision-makers, the sector can build a stronger case for the support it truly deserves.

Want to know more? Uncover the latest data trends from our platform, including average rates from across the UK,  read the research on the state for the sector from leading events industry bodies, and find out about what’s new and what’s coming from EDGE in our latest Business Intelligence Insights Report.