Nicky Pratt, events and development for Kudos, said: “Year-on-year enquiry levels for corporate events has certainly increased; however, the increased value of each booking seems to be the key observation. Although event bookers are still cost conscious, we are seeing clients being more confident and open to new ideas for upgrades to basic packages.”
The venue has reported an increase of 20% in confirmed bookings for the first half of the year, along with a 13% increase in booking value. It has also seen a trend back towards old fashioned summer parties, whereas last year many clients opted for smaller drinks receptions, again reinforcing the return to confidence within the hospitality and events sector.
Rebecca Hawkes, relationship and event maker at Gibson Hall, added: “Some of our core City clients are starting to discuss alternative themes and menu options for events. We have also seen a raft of one-off bookings from clients that would traditionally have used a hotel suite but are now looking for something in the City with flexibility and an outdoor space.”
Kudos, which provides food and venue management services at fixed venues across a number of market sectors in the UK, has an annual turnover of approximately £22m and employs more than 1,500 people every year.