Confex 2019 Was Everything We Wanted it to Be (And More)

In what felt like the blink of an eye, the much talked about and highly anticipated Confex, Event Production Show and PA Show at London Olympia have come to an abrupt end, but here we are, still buzzing and talking about the epic two-day experience. And why wouldn’t we be? Rentuu exhibited at and sponsored the largest single gathering of UK event organisers in one place, and it was everything we wanted it to be and more.

But let’s back up for a moment and have a quick refresher: the three shows, which were co-located, together comprise the largest gathering of event professionals on the calendar. They are organised by CN publisher Mash Media. The key purpose of Confex is for companies (both established and new) to exhibit and discuss new ideas and developments in the wonderful and crazy world that is events. But what makes Confex so special is that it isn't all about the hard sell - it's predominantly an awesome opportunity to build connections, network, and - most importantly - soak up the atmosphere of ingenuity and be truly inspired. 

Here at Rentuu HQ, the anticipation levels were palpable long before February 26th. As the Confex day drew closer, we could hardly contain our excitement. You see, not only were we prepping to show off our ground-breaking new Business Hub to hardworking event professionals from across Europe and the UK, but we were also one of the lead sponsors of the event. 

That's right: Rentuu sponsored the PA Show, as well as Confex post-event drinks and the Tech Theatre drinks. You can understand, then, why as first-time Confex goers and relative newcomers to the events industry scene, we were so psyched to soak up this very special and pivotal moment in our company's history. 

And it was genuinely worth it. Our team had an incredible time meeting hundreds of energetic, passionate and talented individuals in the industry. Even at times when we were tempted to give in to exhaustion/overwhelm (walking the ginormous grounds of Olympia London for 10 hours a day is no easy feat), we would quickly be refuelled by the buzzing energy of fellow industry professionals. 

Over the two days, we met a whole range of incredible individuals: event equipment suppliers who work tirelessly to deliver supplies to their clients; event managers who do everything in their power (and more) to put together smashing events; event tech professionals who are incessantly coming up with ways to innovate and disrupt; event industry thought leaders and influencers. 

We couldn't be more thrilled to find out that everyone we encountered was excited about Rentuu's mission to simplify event equipment rentals for industry professionals everywhere.

Among the highlights of the two days (besides the incredible energy of the individuals we met) was the super fun session of Spin the Wheel that yours truly hosted at the Rentuu stand. We gave away a whole bunch of super fun freebies, and it's safe to say that Confex attendees loved taking part. 

Another notable highlight was, of course, politician and journalist Alistair Campbell's speech at the PA Show, who delivered a 'state of the nation' update on Brexit, Donald Trump and more. He discussed the changing nature of media, and the importance of being politically active: “if you leave politics to someone else, it might not get done the way you want.” 

And finally, every single exhibitor at Confex made the overall experience a real feast for the eyes: from colourful ball pits to bubble machines, tribal drums and reflective glass costumes, there was certainly no shortage of the weird, the crazy, the innovative and the wonderful. We most definitely can't wait to return next year!