AEV's record-breaking conference accelerates future of venue innovation with AI and digital transformation
Last week, on 14 November 2025, the Association of Event Venues (AEV) delivered its largest and most dynamic annual conference yet, convening over 280 event professionals at ExCeL London. This milestone gathering centred on the theme "Accelerate. Shaping the future of venues," setting a forward-thinking agenda aimed at equipping the sector for rapid innovation and operational excellence.
The day commenced with an engaging opening by host Sam McNeill, atex, who set a vibrant tone before introducing the keynote speaker Rob May, Executive Chairman of ramsac. May, recognised for his expertise in AI, cybersecurity, and business leadership, energised the audience with practical strategies for integrating "assisted" intelligence into venue operations. His insights underscored AI’s potential to significantly enhance customer experience and boost operational efficiency, imperatives for venues striving to stay competitive in a fast-evolving market.
Subsequent sessions included a power panel that dissected emerging growth engines within the events industry and examined current legal frameworks such as the Protection of Premises Act. A political landscape update from Tom Bradley of Cavendish provided attendees with critical context on regulatory developments potentially impacting venue operations.
The afternoon workshops presented a blend of workforce and market-focused perspectives. Generational expert Henry Rose Lee shared valuable knowledge about harnessing the diverse capabilities of multi-generational teams, while Beverley Churchill offered a compelling retail lens on venue management, encouraging thinking beyond traditional event site paradigms toward retail-inspired customer engagement and merchandising strategies.
Significantly, the conference also spotlighted operational innovations with endorsements from leading industry technology providers. James Swanston, CEO of Voyage Control, emphasised how their systems support event teams in streamlining logistics and improving the exhibitor experience, reflecting a broader industry trend toward digital optimisations in event delivery.
Preceding the main conference, delegates benefitted from a vibrant icebreaker event at Fame Factory, ExCeL’s Immerse London space, co-sponsored by Full Circle Events and Exhibitions Ltd and Showsec International. Complementary activities included a run club and a breakfast networking session hosted by Momentus Technologies, fostering community spirit and informal knowledge exchange ahead of the formal sessions.
The event also embraced its role in industry education by welcoming several university students and lecturers through the AEV Academic Associate programme, highlighting a commitment to nurturing the next generation of venue professionals.
AEV Director Rachel Parker expressed her gratitude to the speakers, sponsors, partners, and host venue for their exceptional support, which contributed to the event’s record attendance and lively atmosphere. Parker remarked, “Having the opportunity to bring the events community together is always a joy, and an even greater pleasure to see them enjoying the dynamic programme we planned for them. I think this year’s programme has certainly given delegates food for thought on how they may accelerate the shape of the future.”
The day concluded with Sam McNeill’s interactive three-minute mic session, an untamed forum where delegates could pose candid questions, fostering open dialogue and robust debate that mirrored the conference’s progressive spirit.
ExCeL London, marking its 25th year in operation, provided a fitting backdrop for the AEV’s flagship event, renowned for its comprehensive accessibility and state-of-the-art facilities accommodating a wide array of transport options and international connections.
Looking ahead, this successful conference not only reflected the event venues sector’s resilience but also its proactive stance in adopting technological advancements and innovative workforce strategies. It showcased how collaboration among venues, technology partners, and educational institutions is critical for shaping a vibrant, sustainable future for the events industry.