ESSA 2024 Annual Conference to Empower Event Suppliers

The Event Supplier and Services Association (ESSA) has announced details of its 2024 annual conference with the theme of Sustainable Events: People, Profit, Planet.

With sustainability taking centre stage, this year’s conference aims to spark meaningful discussions on how it will shape the future of both businesses and the broader events industry.

Taking place on 5 December at The Warwick Conferences, and sponsored by BeMatrix and Abraxys Global, the conference will feature six insightful sessions designed explore key aspects of sustainability, providing attendees with practical solutions and actionable strategies.

Dr Sally Uren, a globally recognised expert in sustainability, will set the tone for the day leading a discussion on the critical need for systemic change across industries, highlighting how businesses can lead the way in driving sustainable practices.

Two focussed panel sessions will delve into the complexities of supply chains and their impact on sustainability. Attendees will be encouraged to rethink popular approaches to sustainability, exposing the pitfalls of strategies that may at first appear beneficial, and exploring how supply chain innovations can contribute to future solutions. 

The closing keynote from renowned environmental advocate Jo Ruxton, a leading voice in the fight against ocean plastic pollution and founder of the Ocean Generation charity, will offer powerful insights into how individuals and businesses can take meaningful action to protect the planet.

ESSA Director, Andrew Harrison, said: “ESSA continues to lead the way with its provision of education and training on this complex area. Our goal is to simplify the challenges facing supply chains, whilst also inviting collaboration where members can actively contribute to sustainable solutions. The primary aim of this year’s conference is for attendees to leave feeling equipped with the tools and knowledge to drive sustainable change towards future proofing their companies and therefore the industry.”

The conference will culminate with the 2024 Annual ESSA Awards Dinner, where winners across 14 categories will be celebrated for their outstanding contributions to the industry. This year’s categories include an update to the ESSA Young Person Award where several extraordinary individuals who have shown passion and commitment to creating fantastic events during the past 12 months will receive the award. Free to enter, every ESSA member is eligible to submit an entry. Full details and application forms can be found here.

The ESSA 2024 Conference, Dinner and Awards is open to all in the events industry. Full ESSA members receive two complimentary tickets to the conference, dinner & awards*. Tickets start from £150 plus VAT. For further information and to register your attendance, click here**

*Additional tickets required for three or more attendees from the same ESSA member company.
**Separate registrations required for daytime conference and evening awards dinner event.