Event industry must stay in the EU

On June 23rd, 2016 UK voters will go to the polls in what’s being described as the biggest political decision for a generation. Whether we stay in or out of Europe is now the subject of media campaigns by both sides of the debate, with each side offering vastly differing views of how we could be affected.

However, when it comes to the events industry, the only viable decision is to remain in the EU according to one industry professional.

In the latest episode of the Talking Events podcast, Robin Carlisle from Mobile Promotions says that there are simply too many benefits to event companies travelling around Europe to even contemplate any other decision. The company works with high profile clients to deliver brand activation events, marketing promotions, and event production, which regularly sees them travelling around the continent.

Robin thinks that the ease with which they can move around makes staying in an easy choice.

“Compared to way back when being in the EU has made life so much easier. Being able to travel across borders without ATA Carnets – which listed every item you were carrying – is so much better than the traditional nightmare that it used to be. Way back when you could easily loose a couple of days by being held up at a border waiting for stuff to be checked. I have been one of those that was in doubt, but from what I’ve read and what I’ve considered I’m now 100% in favour of staying in.”

Joining the same episode was Nic Howden from All Access Communications, who shared Robin’s view on staying within the EU. Nic told the podcast that a vote to leave could mean lots of small little barriers being created by countries that may be unhappy with that decision.

“I can imagine there being a few more little trip wires being put up. Whether it’s big businesses or small businesses, in the short-term life would be made a lot more difficult fairly quickly.”