EEAA unveils Strategic Plan to bolster member recovery

The Exhibition and Event Association of Australasia (EEAA) has revealed details of its recovery plan as part of its rebuild strategy, following the reopening of NSW and Victoria.

The association has unveiled the EEAA Strategic Plan, following extensive engagement with companies right across the supply chain.

The plan outlines a range of new membership benefits which will be active in the 2022 calendar year, based on five strategic pillars:

1. Post-COVID recovery and resilience building
2. Professional development and education
3. Build networks and community
4. Strengthen brand and reputation
5. Ensure financial stability and effective governance

Within these strategic pillars are a range of practical support areas to increase value to members in a post-pandemic world.

Focus areas include:

• skills and education, and in particular, attracting and retaining staff to deliver to the high standards expected;
• sustainability as the EEAA works to update its Sustainability Framework for launch in 2022, in partnership with Tourism Australia;
• supplier health and support, including pitch sessions;
• special interest groups on a sector-by-sector basis: organisers, venues and suppliers; and
• uptake of international data standards.

EEAA president Nicole Walker (pictured above) said it was A very exciting time for the association, as there is strong momentum amongst board members to look at things differently and ensure it continues to evolve and transform to meet the future direction of exhibitions, conferences and events to support membership and see continued growth.

“While the industry has been buoyed by the progressive relaxation of international and state borders, and cautious optimism, much more is needed to be done to ensure a confident and safe return to business,” she said.

“The association will continue to push for targeted government support, in addition to working on industry-led initiatives.

“We appreciate the excellent relationships developed with governments at state and federal levels and the opportunity to collaborate with other business events related associations.

“We will continue our role in these groups to lobby and promote the economic benefits of business events to the visitor economy and rebuilding CBDs and regional centres.

“Additionally, we must now turn our attention to the future and provide our members with the information and tools required to drive their businesses forward in a post-pandemic world.”