UBM Live announced that IFSEC International will move to London’s ExCeL in June 2014.
The move was confirmed after a 12-month period of research and consultation, which resulted in “overwhelming support” for a move to London in 2014.
The move will see IFSEC International take advantage of London’s status as a global business destination to attract even greater numbers of international attendees.
The move will also mean that the show will remain easily accessible for existing visitors to IFSEC International and co-located shows FIREX International, Safety & Health Expo, and Facilities Show, which make up the Protection & Management Series.
A press release issued this morning also highlights how ExCeL London, as a leading international venue, will enable visitors to circulate between the four events more easily.
As visitors’ requirements have changed over recent years, the series has witnessed more and more visitors wishing to experience all the shows, not just one. The layout of the shows at ExCeL will ensure an enhanced visitor experience, easier navigation, and ultimately a better return on their time.
Simon Parker, Managing Director, UBM Live London, said: “The move back to London after 16 successful years at the NEC is informed by extensive customer research and is a natural progression for the Series as the markets we serve become increasingly international. We are very excited at the prospect of a move to ExCeL which will enable us to continue to grow these enormously successful events by taking advantage of both the benefits of a London location and the ability to attract new visitor sectors.”
Leading figures from the British Security Industry Association and the Fire Industry Association were among those supporting the reason behind the moves.
Simon Everest, Head of the Security Directorate, in UKTI DSO, said: “UKTI have been a long term active partner and supporter of UBM’s Protection & Management Series (IFSEC, FIREX, and Safety & Health Expo). I am delighted to see that UBM Live is relocating to London, taking on board feedback from their customers. A move to London offers UK businesses an exciting global stage to develop export opportunities.”
CEO of UBM Live, Simon Foster, expressed UBM’s commitment to the decision: “We would like to thank the NEC for the part they have played in the sustained success of the Protection & Management Series. UBM Live has a clear strategy to evolve and innovate and, having thoroughly researched the proposal with our stakeholders, moving to London means we can fully engage with our communities internationally whilst enhancing our offering to those in the UK. Our commitment to indispensible content underpins all of our events and the experience we can offer at ExCeL London will be both thought-provoking and memorable for all of our customers.”
The ExCeL offers an array of entertainment facilities including the nearby O2 complex as well as international links via Eurostar, five international airports, and easy access to the capital via both road and rail for UK visitors.
The Protection & Management Series will run from 17 to 19 June 2014 at ExCeL London, and new attractions will be announced in the coming months.
Personally I don’t think this is the best move. The NEC is easily accessible by land and air, also centrally located in the UK for all to travel to. This is only my opinion but I think there will be a drop in the attendance come 2014.
Thanks for your opinion DShepherd and of course you’re entitled to it! Part of the rationale, I understand, is the ease of access for an even bigger number of people from around the world. Of course, only time will tell, but we’ve all got 2013 at the NEC to look forward to first!