DARA Ó BRIAIN TO HOST AEO EXCELLENCE AWARDS 2024
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DARA Ó BRIAIN TO HOST AEO EXCELLENCE AWARDS 2024
In association with Fusion, GES and the NEC
The 14th of June 2024 marks the annual celebration of the AEO Excellence Awards, which recognises and celebrates the achievements of event organisers, venues and suppliers throughout the industry.
The event returns to the Grosvenor House, Park Lane, London, with an Ibiza beach party theme to recognise a ceremony which often takes place on the hottest day of the year.
Back by popular demand, Dara Ó Briain returns as this year’s host, after hosting the virtual AEO Excellence Awards in 2020.
Stand-up comedian and television presenter, Ó Briain is best known in the UK for hosting BBC’s Mock the Week, BlockBusters, Robot Wars, Stargazing Live, Dara and Ed’s Great Big Adventure and Dara Ó Briain’s Go 8Bit and most recently won Channel 4’s Taskmaster.
The categories are now open for entry, which includes one new addition:
- Outstanding Contribution to the Industry
- Marketing Campaign of the Year - UK Trade Show
- Marketing Campaign of the Year - International Trade Show
- Marketing Campaign of the Year – Consumer Show
- Supplier Team of the Year
- Organiser Team of the Year
- Venue Team of the Year
- Technology Innovation Award
- Unsung Hero
- Best International Show – Americas
- Best International Show – Asia Pacific
- Best International Show – Middle East, Africa
- Best International Show – Europe
- Best UK Event Launch
- Best UK Conference
- DEI Initiative
- Sustainability Initiative Award
- Independent Organiser of the Year <2m (NEW for 2024)
- Service Supplier of the Year
- Venue of the Year <20ksqm
- Venue of the Year >20ksqm
- Best Consumer Show
- Best UK Tradeshow <2,000sqm
- Best UK Tradeshow 2,000-8,000sqm
- Best UK Tradeshow >8,000sqm
Chris Skeith OBE, chief executive of AEO says: “The industry thrives on the talents of dedicated individuals who continually push the boundaries of event excellence. Recognising the effort invested in delivering outstanding shows both domestically and internationally is crucial and is the purpose of these awards.
On another note, we are pleased to welcome Dara Ó Briain back this year! Having skilfully hosted the virtual AEO Excellence Awards in 2020, we are confident that the live show will exceed expectations, providing the Dara experience we were all hoping for before the industry shut down.
Adding to the excitement, we are thrilled to unveil the beach party theme for this edition. We anticipate our sponsors will revel in the opportunity to infuse creativity into their activations, making it an enjoyable and memorable affair for all involved.”
The AEO will be working closely with headline sponsors, Fusion, GES, and the NEC to bring attendees an unforgettable experience.
Richard Mullens, product director from Fusion says: “On behalf of Fusion (previously Circdata), we are excited to be a headline sponsor once again for the AEO Excellence Awards (2024). Our involvement outwardly demonstrates our long-standing commitment to supporting the AEO and the great work they do.
We are delighted to have the opportunity to showcase our dedication to supporting these prestigious awards with our event management experience and technology innovation. We look forward to delivering a great experience for all whilst recognising the achievements of the best of the best in the industry. “
Jason Stead, President, GES EMEA Exhibitions says: “We are delighted to continue our headline sponsorship of the AEO Awards as part of our long-term partnership with the AEO. The AEO share our goal of driving the industry forward – not just through how we physically produce events, but also through how we further embrace technology through the likes of Visit. The awards are a cornerstone of our industry and provide the perfect platform to recognise our amazing industry and to showcase our talent, innovation, and dedication."
Kelly Haslehurst, marketing director for Conventions and Exhibitions at the NEC, said: “It is always a privilege to be a headline sponsor at the AEO Excellence Awards, in this our ninth consecutive year of sponsorship.
“It’s a standout date in the calendar where our industry can get together to celebrate and recognise the fantastic work across the sector over the past 12 months, whether that’s as venues, organisers, suppliers or colleagues.”
