Case Studies & FAQ
REPUTATION BUILT ON HELPING CLIENTS ACHIEVE GOALS
Corporate Case Studies
EMPLOYER BENEFITS
We Believe Nothing Is Impossible
WHAT MAKES US DIFFERENT
Making the right impressions starts from the point strangers meet. In many cases for our clients, this happens to be the point of departure, this for many is the ‘DEPARTURE AIRPORT LOUNGE’ where all travellers unite. On a journey time exceeding two hours, it just makes sense to allow bonding to start earlier (Allowing individuals within a group to become friends whilst on the plane) and not at the ‘ARRIVAL POINT’ when you see the Meet & Greet boards.
BUSINESS TRAVEL ACCOUNTS
We offer organisations: “A personal account manager option” where a dedicated (Experienced) account manager is assigned to handle every aspect of your travel, whether it’s flight ticketing, accommodation, or an organised strategic one-to-one meeting. We also advise on private dining reservations and much more. The service offered is more than just having a private PA but a level of service that is reflected in experience when handling and hosting many events overseas. If you see this service being of benefit, call our office for additional details.
CORPORATE BENEFITS OF GROUP BONDING ACTIVITIES
Our aim is to aid organisations to deliver on their strategic internal targets. We do this by offering various positive incentives across departmental boundaries that lead to multi-functional teams bonding and communicating better for the purpose of helping organisations improve their bottom-line profits.
BROKEN SPIRITS
We are happy to work with relevant departments to implement a continuous improvement strategy with discretion and sensitivity towards operational structures. Our focus is to establish acceptable engaging programs and help organisations in committing to improving their current commercial approach, culture, people, and work processes.
So., why not consider having us work alongside your department heads to outline a single direction of framework that aims to ensure a consistent business in line with best practice.
AIM
To provide successful project improvements/initiatives across your business by developing enthusiastic and motivated teams.
ONGOING
It is important to be able to build flexible working relationships that allow employers to monitor continuous improvements whilst abiding by existing Health, Safety, and Environmental requirements.
FAQ Section (Scroll to bottom)
Previous Events
1.
Event Benefits Via Tax Efficiency
THE REQUIREMENT: Our client is a CEO of a small-sized company of ten employees that always spent his own money on providing an annual group travel incentive that not only encouraged staff bonding but ultimately helped towards retaining his annual corporate profit margin.
THE RESULT: We recommended to the client consider switching from spending his own money to using corporate funds. Switching to corporate funds allowed his travel incentives to become a business expense and hence tax qualify. What’s better than a business owner having to pay less in corporation tax and retaining his or her personal income for other purposes.
2.
PR Company commissioned us on behalf of a Pharma
THE REQUIREMENT We were approached by a PR company based in Philadelphia that asked us to organise several daily full-inclusive packages to entertain 30 of the world’s most senior cardiologists. This included private dining experiences to hiring private boxes at sporting fixtures.
“The difference is in the results”
THE RESULT Probably the most memorable time experienced by all 30 delegates. Character profiling of delegates helped us in offering the PR company a fully designed group package based our what would excite.
3.
Celebrating Success
THE REQUIREMENT The client provided us with a shopping list consisting of key elements for their upcoming celebration event.
THE RESULT We arranged all theming, a venue that would complement the client’s lavish message, and caterers that offered a pre-selection of biting prior to guests sitting down to a silver service plated format, An MC, sound, and AV were ready as was the entertainment and we also provided a guest valet service. All drinks and meals were pre-selected due to dietary reasons.
4.
Breaking the ice
THE REQUIREMENT A legal practice wanted to create a client showcase evening at their offices where existing clients would be invited. The client’s aims were that delegates should network and communicate with their practice partners.
THE RESULT We created various attractions that included cheese and wine tasting together with a large Scalextric game. The client saw the event as a good way of breaking barriers and hopefully obtaining new business.
5.
Call Centre – Time is Money
THE REQUIREMENT We were approached by a call center that wanted us to help them reduce the level of cigarette breaks employees were having by introducing a healthier option that would retain the staff at their desks for a longer period of time.
“We always welcome an opportunity to assist any HR office”
THE RESULT We introduced 3 step motivation tool. The first was by having various masseurs approach the staff whilst they were working and ask them if they would like a neck and hand massage to help them de-stress. The second was offering them a fruit selection of apples, pears, and grapes which they could nibble at their desk. The third was someone going around early afternoon with coffee and mints served to them at their desks. The clients felt that the operation was a complete success and did reduce the staff numbers from leaving the building for smoke breaks.
6.
Private Small Group Away Day
THE REQUIREMENT We were asked by an office manager to offer a memorable day away group experience for five amazing employees. The objective was based on fun and communication within the group. It also had to leave a lasting impression.
THE RESULT With the exception of the manager, we let the five staff within a group, think that they were attending a corporate milestone event which was being celebrated at a restaurant in Paris. So everyone was asked to meet early at the airline check-in desk. Everyone was told that there was no need to pack any luggage as they would be coming back the same day. Really cheap one-way low-cost flight tickets were purchased. The focus was on pushing quality and value which obviously left many pondering whether they would, in fact, be returning home via coach transportation. In actual fact, their return was pre-planned using a hired private jet. Imagine the impact that had, which still is a talking point to this day…
7.
Staff away day package
THE REQUIREMENT The corporate client wanted us to source a catering school and organise a coaching facility for the event. The client was UK based and required us to handle the logistics behind the whole event.
THE RESULT We arranged a coach to pick up a group of 30 staff from their office and took them to the pre-designated catering school. The staff was then divided into their groups by coloured neck scarfs that had been provided. The group selection was pre-organised by the client. Team A was responsible for preparing the starters, Team B for the Main course, and team C for the dessert. Having chosen an Italian menu, you can probably guess what was created. The beauty was that the group was then treated to a shared creation. Later, we found out that the event was designed as a leaving gift for one of the senior member’s staff.
Well known brands
McKinsey & Company
We were required to organise a team-building event at the Palace Hotel in New York for over 300 McKinsey & Co staff. The event was aimed at establishing the benefits of working together. The overall feedback from the client was that it was enjoyable and created a good break between the serious discussions of the day.
Shell Upstream International BV
EVENT 1 We were required to design a relaxing destress event where the group could have fun communicating with each other away from the serious message of the day. By separating the two, the group was allowed to digest more of what they learned due to the relaxed nature of how we designed the event.
EVENT 2 Required to design a quiz evening for over 1000 guests at the European Space Centre in the Netherlands.
Siemens Information and Communication EOOD
We were asked to design with an overseas conference. We put forward several suggestions of which they chose one. A site inspection was organised where suppliers were introduced. Every aspect of the event was covered and this included all fine details including food allergies, physical tolerance level to activities, any dietary requirements, and most importantly the type of message Siemens wanted to share within its group.
MTV
MTV was hosting an event during the Cannes film festival and asked us to supply and manage some racing simulators that were coin free. These were great icebreakers and had everyone regardless of seniority within the organisation to relax and create a promotional awareness that complemented their brand.
Linkedin Corporation
We were asked to design a group incentive that would help individuals within the organisation come together which in turn help their communication skills amongst each other.
Reuters
We were asked by the Swiss office of Reuters to design a treasure hunt through the streets of Amsterdam. The event involved splitting the group into teams and were asked to travel on foot to solve the clues.
Daily Mail & Mail on Sunday
Our events team managed to create a brand new team-building game that was specially designed for the Daily Mail staff. It was based on newspaper circulations. Importantly, it was about learning and understanding how the paper industry works. It had everyone competing amongst each other which proved to be lots of fun.
FAQ Section
Why choose us?
Our Focus?
Our focus is on designing value-for-money travel & event packages. The aim of all businesses is to make profits. Our historical record already outlines the benefits provided to a number of branded companies. Whether it’s for a staff incentive package, conference, a fun activity or simply looking for either a retreat or honeymoon package, experience what door we can open!
Global connections?
Our 35 years of experience have made us a serious player within the international event planning arena. For those that are curious… Yes, we organise events worldwide. With such a vast supplier list, we may be amongst the most resourceful event planners around. Our focus is on designing events that enhance; luxury, enjoyment, and communication.
The value of project management
All our project managers around the world are trained individuals with years of experience which means that they are at the forefront of preventing any negative issues relating to your event from ever occurring. This often relates to issues that may seem simple when first discussing itineraries or schedules at the time of booking but often can be lost in translation. The project manager’s first responsibility is the client.
So many companies offering events…
Over the last 35 years, our clientele has grown. In our experience, it’s seldom about the budget but quality and value, however, although budgets are an important factor, more so; it’s often about the final end result that matters.
We always need to understand the core values behind both the organisation paying the account and the profile or make-up of those participating.
Let us explain; Assume we are required to organise a communication-enhancing event for two very different industry sectors. One is a firm of prestigious accountants whilst the other is a sales-oriented telesales operation… Due to the difference in work practices and staffing personalities, it’s not difficult to see why the final outcome may be different. This is an important issue when considering the perfect event to select.
How long has your organisation been working within the events industry
That’s easy… The company has been organising high-end corporate events for over 25 years. Very little surprises us, but we always keep an open mind. We like to think that we know every aspect of the event planning industry and yes, often we do get surprises. Our buying power coupled with experience is proven traits that depict our market value.
How much detail do you need before you can start?
The more information clients supply at the outset, the better the final outcome. We want to ensure that all events work like clockwork. Our secret has been a fully adaptable function sheet that is completed prior to the execution of any event program.
Do you have any preferred locations?
The answer to this is No. We have over 37 representation offices with roughly just over 160 event suppliers worldwide from North America to Australia. They all understand the value of local communication and have in-depth knowledge of any advanced festivals that help get the most out of any group event.
I want to feel comfortable with one source
Many of our clientele prefer to deal with a single source when it comes to organising an event rather than a collection of mixed suppliers where there is no central focal direction. This is key especially when you may at times need to shuffle event schedules and timings. This is a logistics issue and often discourages many from handling the projects directly.
Benefits of a Site Inspection – Ensuring quality and customer satisfaction
Rather than having clients reply on paper format ideas, we encourage all overseas events to include a site inspection based on our proposal. The site inspection is a vital part of an event where the client gets a mini experience of the event prior to the actual event date. The client may see several hotels on the day of the site inspection but decide on a favorite perhaps due to location, convenience, or simply because it’s perfect for their needs.
Anything you don’t do?
Children’s events, wedding ceremonies, and bad events.
How event prices are set ?
THE FOLLOWING ARE FOR GUIDE PURPOSES ONLY
1* Health & Safety
Health & safety will always be at the top of any event criteria. We take health and safety for the whole event very seriously. Whether it’s about providing first aiders on standby or selecting suitable activities for groups.
2* Transportation logistics
This refers to passenger distribution; from transfers, and coaches to flight ticketing. Did you know that we are able to get the best prices on the market for airline seats if the group size exceeds 50 people. We have agreements in place where we are able to beat any online price plus give you the advantage of having flexibility in your tickets; Name changes, last-minute alterations (normally permitted with business class), All airlines from BA, TAP, etc…
3 * Location
Where the event is being staged can be subject to price and value. This can also reflect on the final quality of an event. Consider an excitable location, look at different cities or countries where you get more from an event. We always consider overseas locations for large events. Better exchange rate and easy logistical access and a look at any hidden charges that may be either included or even imposed as penalties like local taxes either directly or indirectly.
4 * Hotel / Venue Selected
Hotel rates vary from location / city / country. We can often get enhanced rates as group concessions also known as sweeteners.
5 * Event duration
This refers to the total time from start to finish… 1 day to 5 days, etc.
6 * Group size
The cost for various products and services often is cheaper subject to group size. The greater the group size the greater the discount. (Please note that the level of discount varies from event to type of services being commissioned.
7 * Budget
An open budget however beautiful this may sound is not realistic. Overspending on events can and often does happen and if accounting procedures are not recorded then this would be dangerous to all parties. Flexibility is also important as many clients often have the need for those last-minute trinkets and souvenirs.
8* Cancellation Policy
All bookings must be confirmed and paid for within 16 weeks prior to the event date. Any event canceled within 12 weeks of the event date would mean that zero refund is applicable. Any cancellation made prior to 16 weeks will qualify for a full 100% refund.
9 * Changes and Amendments
With group bookings, changes and alterations are often permitted till the last four weeks of departure. We understand this and as policy, changes are permitted 4 weeks prior to the event date. However, we do allow flexibility on this. Please note that this policy does not include any pre-paid airfares that may have been paid for in advance.
10 * Delegate registration, Conference Set-up ~ Set Design ~ Staging ~ Lighting and including take-down and clearance of waste
This refers to anyone considering planning a conference.
11 * Type of activities or services selected as extras.
Don’t assume that all products and services being commissioned for events are ever going to be the same price. Whether it’s team building activities, theatre evenings, spa activities or golfing green fees, event and personal security to syndicate room hire rates, etc, Please note that our event proposals will outline all aspects of all costs that should be included.
Are you booking a venue directly ? Customers and venue protection
Benefits of using an Escrow Account via FunEvents.com
It’s not strange to hear that many people often suffer financial issues with conference and banqueting venues changing last-minute bookings. The contracts individuals sign are in favour of venues and seldom protect the customer or client. Problems arise when initial agreed conditions are not met by a venue. Things do go wrong on functions due to last-minute refurbishment demands, takeovers, etc. Conditions are often added within contract terms to handle this or venues may either postpone or bring forward a date due to unforeseen circumstances. Contracts should be permitted to include compensation for canceled agreements.
The question is whether there any type of secure alternative has been considered.
The alternative may be for clients and a customer to consider using an experienced event planning company.
Here is the reason why.
Permit the event company to check all contracts prior to signing. Set up an Escrow client account with FunEvents.com as an impartial moderator.
Don’t forget that many venues should accept a low holding deposit (which in the event of a loss, may often be covered by an event insurance policy) where the final amount is payable upon the event date/completion.
We recommend that the balance is put into an Escrow client account that is managed by a qualified lawyer, which is payable to the venue on the day of the event.
An “Escrow Account”. The final balance is retained until the completion of a set project. Drip feed deposits may be made subject to acceptance from all parties.
FEES to consider: (1) Charge payable to an insurance company taking a risk (2) Legal costs handling the Escrow client account
If a venue does not accept this option, we would recommend you consider someplace else.
Anti Bribery Act 2010
BRIBERY & CORRUPTION POLICY
Fun Events Corporate Services Limited (FunEvents.com) operates a corruption-free service when dealing with any third parties professionally. FunEvents.com will never tolerate any form of bribery, corruption, or related malpractice and expects its employees and any third parties acting on its behalf to also adopt a similar approach. The term “Third Parties” includes any individual or an organisation that is or has been engaged by FunEvents.com or acts on behalf of an individual or organisation. This includes freelancers, agents, talent, sub-contractors, and fixers (each a “Third Party”).
This Bribery Policy explains what is required of any person connected directly or indirectly including Third Party employees or those engaged by FunEvents.com and what action must be taken by such person or Third Party should it encounter or suspect corruption or bribery of any kind whilst working for or with FunEvents.com.
Bribery
A bribe is an inducement offered, given, or received in order to obtain an improper advantage, be it commercially or individually. Under the Bribery Act 2010 (“the Act”) the following actions are listed as criminal offenses:
1. To offer or give a bribe;
2. To request, agree to receive, or accept a bribe;
3. To bribe a foreign public official; and
4. Failure by a company to prevent bribery by an associated person acting for that company’s benefit.
If an individual or a company is found to have committed an offense under the Act, substantial (unlimited) fines can be imposed and individuals responsible can face up to 10 years imprisonment. Obviously, a company implicated in any form of bribery or corruption would also suffer unquantifiable damage to its reputation.
The offense outlined in point 4 above refers to “associated persons” of an organisation. This is intended to cover the entire range of persons that may perform services for or on behalf of an organisation, including employees, agents, suppliers, and subsidiaries. FunEvents.com, therefore, requires all persons and Third Parties employed or engaged by it to comply with this policy and the Act generally at all times.
Hospitality and Gifts
FunEvents.com recognises that hospitality is, for the most part, an accepted form of business in order to establish or build good business relations and that it is normal for employees and Third Parties to give and/or receive gifts and hospitality in the course of their engagement. However, care must always be taken to ensure that the gift/hospitality that is given or received by/from FunEvents.com or Third Parties is reasonable and appropriate given the particular set of circumstances.
As a general rule, the less lavish the gift/hospitality is and the lower the expenditure, the less likely it will be deemed a bribe. If a gift/hospitality given or received appears out of the ordinary based on the circumstances and the particular business relationship or if the gift/hospitality is beyond what would reasonably or justifiably be given in the industry, question why it is being offered.
It is crucial that any person or Third Party giving or receiving a gift/hospitality on FunEvents.com‘s behalf considers the intention behind the gift/hospitality. If the giver of the gift/hospitality is hoping to persuade, induce or oblige the recipient to act improperly (as opposed to simply contributing to a legitimate business relationship) it could be deemed bribery. Please contact the CEO’s office immediately if based on the above you are still unsure whether a gift/hospitality is reasonable and/or appropriate.
FunEvents.com operates a Company Gift Register which logs all gifts given or received by or on behalf of the company. Any person or organisation acting on FunEvents.com’s behalf must register each gift received or given by it in the Company Gift Register as soon as it gives/receives the same.
Operating Abroad
The Act extends to the bribing of foreign officials and it is, therefore, crucial that any person or organisation acting on FunEvents.com’s behalf abroad is made aware of FunEvents.com’s policy on bribery and corruption. This clearly needs to be considered when engaging fixers and production services companies for foreign events.
FunEvents.com expects all employees and Third Parties who are required to provide their services abroad to seek local advice with regards to disguised requests for facilitation payments; question the authority of those demanding any payments and ask to confirm such authority with superiors; always require receipts for any payments made; and, where necessary build in extra time to cover potential delays as a result of non-payment.
Code of Conduct
When working for, with, or on behalf of FunEvents.com it is never acceptable for employees or Third Parties to:
• Offer or give a payment, gift, or hospitality with the intention of obtaining a business advantage as a result of that inducement (rather than because of a genuine commercial reason for providing the advantage, such as a lower price, better service, etc), or to reward a business advantage already given; AND/OR
• Offer or give a payment, gift, or hospitality to a government official, agent or representative to “facilitate” or expedite a routine procedure both at home or abroad; AND/OR
• Receive/accept a payment, gift, or hospitality from a third party that it would be reasonable to suspect is offered with the expectation that it will result in a business advantage for that party; AND/OR
• Engage in any activity whatsoever that might lead to a breach of this policy or in contravention of the Act generally.
Failure to comply with this Bribery Policy will be deemed to constitute a material breach of an employee, worker, or Third Party’s employment or engagement contract and shall entitle FunEvents.com to terminate the same with immediate effect.
Monitoring & Review
This Policy has been drafted and approved by the directors of FunEvents.com who take the matter of bribery and corruption extremely seriously. The directors will regularly review this policy, assessing the efficacy of both the terms and implementation of its code of conduct. Any improvements identified as being necessary will be made as soon as possible in order to ensure that the policy is suitable, adequate, up to date, and effective at all times.
If you have any questions about this policy or the code of conduct outlined above, or, suspect that any bribery or corruption has taken place, please contact the CEO’s office or a senior member of staff immediately.
Privacy Policy
When you interact with the Fun Events Group we sometimes receive or collect personal information about you. All information held is regulated under the data-protection and can be accessible upon a written request. We do not keep any sensitive information on any server.