HIMSS Europe & Health 2.0 Conference, Sitges, Barcelona 27-29 May 2018

Showlite enjoyed a trip overseas in 2018. We caught up with Levi Evans, Account Manager at Showlite to find out how it went:

1.    What did Showlite deliver for the event organiser?
Showlite delivered an excellent service across exhibitor contact, communication and product delivery. Each stand composed of a package of a counter, walling, electrics and customisable branding signage that made each exhibitor stand out from each other. As branding was a major element of this event we incorporated a digital upload system for exhibitors to deliver their artwork to, complete with instructions on how to prepare their branding for maximum effect. With the incorporation of a manual artwork checking process and direct contact, we were able to ensure that each exhibitor received the products they were entitled to in a qualitative manner. This resulted in a more fluid experience for both organiser and contractor as the new systems in place allowed challenges to flow to departments which could overcome them the best.

2.    What were the main differences preparing and delivering on an event overseas?
Preparation for an international event is no different than the preparation for a local event. Despite the difference in logistical distance, time zones and language barriers the overseas event was built to a quality standard that we are renowned for.

3.    Were their specific challenges that you wouldn’t encounter at an event in the UK?
Having a wedding ceremony during the drop-off and being told that we could not park beside certain windows is definitely something we have not encountered in an event in the UK.

4.    What was the highlight of the event for you?
Being my first international event that I was responsible for I can conclude that the entire experience was an amazing one. The parts that were of most significance was definitely the excitement of working out my comfort zone, being part of a reliable team, and being in control of the situation from start to finish.

5.    What advice would you give to another event contractor looking to do their first event abroad?
Never underestimate the difference in how words are translated to your native language and always have a trusted colleague to check over your data before placing everything into production.

6.    How many of the Showlite team were onsite?
Eleven in total, 8x from standfitting and 3x from electrical.

7.    Did you have time to enjoy the nightlife in Sitges?
We were fortunate enough to be able to explore the local culture, cuisine and lifestyle of the city, after our formal duties were relieved for the day that is!

8.    Is it important that key members of the team speak the local language?
The significance of being fluent in the local language was not as important as initially anticipated.
The venue being an international environment meant that nearly all personnel involved with the construction of the show was familiar with English.

9.    Did you work with local suppliers? What was your experience of this? How did you know they would deliver the same level of service as suppliers in the UK we have built up relationships with?
We took it upon ourselves to ensure that all aspects of the event were signed off and checked multiple times before the materials were shipped to Barcelona. This did prevent any mistakes in the initial delivery but did not cover the risk in breakages during the construction of the stands. To minimise the risk of any problems, particularly graphics; we were in contact with a local supplier that was also delivering digitally printed products to the event. Despite the strong prevalent coastal winds presented by the location of the venue there we no accidents during the build and that in itself is a massive success.

10.    Have you had feedback from the organiser?
“HIMSS has working with Showlite for a number of years and they continue to deliver exceptional service from beginning to end. They have a very professional and dedicated team who always go the extra mile to ensure our events run smoothly. They always deliver a personalized service for any of our events with such a positive attitude.”
– Jessica Bagley, HIMSS 

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