Lisa Hatswell, Chairman of UVL and Sales and Corporate Events Manager at The Merlin Entertainments London Eye

More than half of all venues see reduction in corporate bookings in 2009: survey

Lorraine Francisco, 01 July 2010

Unique Venues of London (UVL) and The Westminster Collection (TWC) joined forces to carry out a business tourism survey that found London venues were confident corporate event business will be strong in 2011, despite a tough last year.

The survey questioned UVL and TWC joint collection of over 100 venues and also found that 53% said delegate numbers are remaining steady.

79% said that lead times have continued to remain short and, although 55% of venues recorded a reduction in corporate bookings in 2009, it seems venues are hopeful for 2011.

"Whilst it is undeniable that the recent recession has seen some venues struggle in the marketplace, this survey does highlight the confidence in the corporate market moving forwards and the fundamental role of Visit London et al," said UVL chairman Lisa Hatswell.

"It is therefore crucial that venues like ours, alongside key industry bodies, continue to express the need for funding in the capital and ensure that business tourism can continue to grow".

TWC chief executive Rene Dee added: "This business survey represents my belief that, in producing more meaningful and up to date research for our particular sector, this will help to guide us in future decision making about how London promotes itself in this vital area."

The research will be used to assist Visit London, Westminster City Council, the Mayors Office and the London Business Tourism Group to gain government support for the industry.

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