Abstract

This paper examines conference venue refurbishments within purpose built venues, hotels, educational establishments and visitor attractions across the U.K conference sector. The main data relates to six refurbishment activities undertaken to create a venues conference product. Additionally, refurbishments undertaken since the conference facilities opened and future plans for refurbishments across the four venue classifications are examined. The refurbishments examined are that of upgrading furnishings, upgrading décor, complying with health & safety legislation, the implementation of modern conference technologies, converting and/or extending the venue to supply or improve conference facilities and the provision of disabled access. The results show that initial level of initial investment across all venue classifications is not sustained, and a decline in future investment is apparent.