The Meetings Industry Association (MIA) and events association beam have voiced concern following VisitBritain’s decision to restructure its business events division amid wider funding reductions. The move follows previously announced cuts to VisitBritain’s government grant-in-aid funding, which fell by 41% to £10.57 million, prompting fears across the sector about the future of the UK’s international business events activity.
MIA Chief Executive Shonali Devereaux criticised the lack of a coordinated government approach to business events policy: “Despite its significant contribution to economic growth, the sector lacks consistent representation within government, with responsibility spread across multiple departments rather than a single, coordinated point of engagement.”
Chair of beam, David Tremmil, is deeply concerned by the changes: “Reducing dedicated support for business events sends the wrong message to an industry that continues to deliver significant economic impact across the UK.”
David warned the cuts risk weakening the UK’s competitiveness internationally at a time when many rival destinations continue to invest heavily in attracting meetings, conferences, exhibitions, and incentive travel: “Business events drive investment, create commercial opportunities, support regional economies, and showcase UK expertise internationally. At a time when the UK economy needs growth, trade, and inward investment, reducing support risks becoming a false economy.”