S3 E8: Post-COVID Insights on Events with Frédéric François

Frédéric François discusses the current state of live events and the challenges and opportunities they present. He notes that while most events are back, there are still some issues with international attendees due to travel restrictions. He highlights the importance of networking in B2B events and how online platforms cannot replicate the physical networking experience.

Frédéric also mentions the disappearance of small meetings that could be easily conducted online, which has had an impact on the event industry. He emphasizes the need for events to focus on creating a multi-sensory experience and explains how his company incorporates content, demonstrations, and networking opportunities into their B2B trade fairs. Frédéric also discusses the challenges of finding and booking technical personnel in the post-COVID era and the importance of sustainability in event planning. He concludes by expressing his belief that AI is an ally to event organizers and that physical events will continue to thrive due to their unique ability to engage all five senses.

About the Guest

Frédéric François is General Manager of Two cents agency in Brussels, Belgium. With a majority of his career spent in the event space, Frédéric has extensive experience in planning and executing live events. He is passionate about creating memorable experiences for attendees and helping organizations incorporate events into their strategic communications plans. Frédéric spent the first 10 years of his career at Brussels Expo as an exhibition organiser with special interest in the marcom aspects. He then created two companies: Advanced Fair, which specialises in trade fair organisation, and Two cents, which specialises in PR, content, and digital marketing. Why choose between two activities when you can combine both?

About the Host

Abbie Fink is president of HMA Public Relations in Phoenix, Arizona and a founding member of PRGN. Her marketing communications background includes skills in media relations, digital communications, social media strategies, special event management, crisis communications, community relations, issues management, and marketing promotions for both the private and public sectors, including such industries as healthcare, financial services, professional services, government affairs and tribal affairs, as well as not-for-profit organizations.

PRGN Presents is brought to you by Public Relations Global Network, the world’s local public relations agency. Our co-host and executive producer is Adrian McIntyre with Speed of Story, a B2B communications firm in Phoenix.

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