The Messe Frankfurt Locations Talk presents operational tips, technical background information and news from the locations of Messe Frankfurt.
Protocol, VIPs & Political Affairs at events
How do event planners integrate protocol tasks? Are there any golden rules and what is the fundamental strategic importance of the topic? Katrin Ordnung, Head of Protocol and Political Affairs, Messe Frankfurt and Dr. Björn Mathes, CEO DECHEMA Ausstellungs-GmbH spoke openly, in detail and entertainingly about these topics with host Michael Biwer, Vice President Guest Events at Messe Frankfurt on 14 November.
Key learnings from the talk:
- Protocol tasks arise in many event formats, not only at major events; VIP handling does not just begin with the visit of heads of state.
- Protocol issues should be integrated into the entire event planning process, from the conception phase through to the evaluation phase.
- Protocol often goes hand in hand with complex security requirements. Security measures, especially for high-ranking guests, must be carefully inquired about, planned and communicated to participants in advance. This can result in unexpectedly high costs and cause serious changes to carefully planned procedures at very short notice.
- Protocol work requires respect and attention to detail: from flag concepts and dealing with consulates or the diplomatic corps to seating arrangements and welcome formalities. Organizers in the locations of Messe Frankfurt benefit from the comprehensive experience of Katrin Ordnung's Protocol team, that offers support and advice.
- The strategic importance of political affairs is growing - also for event organizers: in a society marked by numerous geopolitical crises, cooperation with politicians and a fundamental proximity to politics is becoming increasingly important for events. This is why politics and event management must work hand in hand to bring relevant representatives to relevant formats.
- Charming anecdotes from our discussion partners prove this: Even with meticulous planning, you can never anticipate all eventualities, so if something does go wrong, the main rule is: Stay calm and just move on with a smile…
Deep Dive: Sustainability at events
How can a sustainability strategy be structurally embedded in a company? What added value do sustainable events bring? What future objectives beyond climate neutrality can we expect? Ben Wielgus, Head of Sustainability at Informa, and Vivien Altmann-Morelli, Sustainability Management at Messe Frankfurt, spoke openly and in detail about these topics with moderator and host Michael Biwer, Vice President Guest Events at Messe Frankfurt during our livestream on 1 February, 2024.
Key learnings from the talk:
- We got to know two highly advanced qualification processes: EMAS – environmental management and audit system to define environmental performance in the first year and continually improve it via a concrete target architecture. Better stands – as a new industry initiative not only offering better customer experience, commercial opportunities and environmental impact but also debunking common pushbacks.
- Sustainability at events does not necessarily cause more costs but definitely brings added value for the organizer, the location, host city and mainly for the participants.
- What organizers expect from venues/providers: There will be no way without the commitment to net zero carbon, a clear commitment to waste avoidance and the consistent collaboration of all partners.
- In the end sustainability has to be structurally anchored in a company, but it needs the contribution from everyone, it definitely starts with turning off the light and switching down the heating – it should become part of the DNA and the mindset.
- The world and our industry can’t wait. In the near future, sustainability will become a standard component of event planning. Important future topics will be: circular economy, locally sourcing, green venue policy, high impact event culture, avoiding green washing, educating people…. See our buzzword cloud in the video.