In the month since International Confex 2025, the topic is still alive throughout the events industry. This is evidence of the show’s lasting impact.
Venue correspondent Christina O’Connell caught up with representatives from ACC Liverpool, Venue Collection (TVC) and Arena Racing Company (ARC) Yourvenue and Doncaster Racecourse to explore the reasons why they exhibited, highlights and what they wanted to see next year.
Why are you going to display it at Confex?
arc
Yourvenue, part of Arena Racing Company, is a longtime exhibitor at Confex. This year, it took more to sponsor the association and the corporate theater. The flagship venue, Doncaster’s racecourse, also featured a horse racing game that attracted participants and made them engage.
ACC Liverpool
A regular since 2008, ACC Liverpool will be present to connect with clients and promote the city as a destination for business events. “It’s a great opportunity to keep up, learn about industry trends and see what our competitors are doing,” said Stephanie MacFarlane, senior corporate and agency sales manager.
TVC
This year marked the first year of venue collections as a group with a portfolio of Lime venues. “We wanted to be in front of our minds for the planner,” said Katie Whitby, director of sales. “The quality of the stands and the buzz has made it an exciting community.”
What was your highlight?
arc
The association and the sponsors of the Corporate Theater stood out. “We secured over 100 appointments and received 19 eligible leads,” said National Account Manager Angela Corey Francis. “It was a great opportunity to be meaningfully involved.”
Tagho Avwunu, senior marketing executive at conferences and events, praised the conference program. “From strategy to marketing inspiration, there was something for everyone.”
TVC
“The acquisition of Daily Kitchen Disco was a hit,” Whitby said. “We were able to showcase catering and connect in a relaxed and memorable way.”
ACC Liverpool
The sessions on accessibility, sustainability and event impact were a major takeaway. “We even cried out at work,” MacFarlane pointed out. Their stand drink reception also attracted the crowd and sparked valuable conversations.
How did you maximize your vision?
arc
From their position to the theatre sponsorship, your Ben has made it known. “We have tailored our thinking leadership to show why our space combines business with high-energy experiences,” Corey Francis said.
ACC Liverpool
As part of Team Liverpool, they joined forces with local partners such as the National Museum and Sodexo Live. “It’s about elevating the region as a compelling business event destination.”
TVC
TVC made the most of its event apps, networking opportunities and lively stands. “We left a strong lead and a clear message. Our venue is perfect for a wide range of events,” Whitby said.
What kind of innovation would you like to see in 2026?
arc
“There is a growing demand for the concept of happiness-based networking and outdoor events,” Colley-Francis said. “I’d like to see more of what’s reflected in future editions.”
“Next year, we would like to focus more on happiness and outdoor event experiences, whether we showcase more active, wellness-driven networking opportunities, outdoor event spaces, or a seamless blend of venue. The thrill of the race day experience will bring participants to feel inspiration and vitality.”
ACC Liverpool
“We are eager to help Confex continue to present a diverse range of content and help innovate. It’s nice to see the familiar faces from Confex, but it’s good to see fresh faces in speaker sessions.”
TVC
Whitby called for more advance booking appointments to begin early in the process to provide more online networks and invite buyers to meet.
“Tools like this are great to help exhibitors and buyers maximize their time and have valuable conversations with the right people.”
She said that the bigger murders between the various shows running alongside Confex in 2026 will create more opportunities for meaningful connections by increasing the synergy between the different sectors represented by the show. ”
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