ESA conference to focus on promoting and protecting sponsorship industry
 

A sponsorship conference focusing on the latest industry trends and legislation facing the sector will be held in Brussels next month. Called Sponsorship in Safe Hands, the one-day event will take place on April 24th and is being organised by the European Sponsorship Association (ESA), in conjunction with leading Belgian independent law firm, Liedekerke.

The conference aims to attract sponsorship professionals working across Europe who are keen to have a clearer understanding of the implications of changing legislation both nationally and at EU level. Karen Earl, Chairman of the European Sponsorship Association, who will open the conference, says that while the sponsorship industry is in a very healthy position, it needs to be wary of potential threats: "These are interesting times. The industry is enjoying tremendous growth and a heightened presence within the marketing mix on the one hand, whilst also facing potentially prohibitive legislation that could affect sponsorship campaigns, particularly across the drinks, gaming and fast foods markets". Impressive The conference will combine presentations from keynote speakers and will also engage the audience with interactive panel discussions, moderated by William Fenton, Editor of The World Sponsorship Monitor (TWSM). An impressive line-up of speakers will share their experiences and give insight into their latest thinking. They include Cristina Rossi, Coca-Cola; Lilian Baudard, Eurosport International; Antonio Costanzo, bwin; and Pierre-Olivier Bergeron, Brewers of Europe. Liedekerke lawyers Mireille Buydens and Martine Demeur will provide legal insight   into the challenges of prohibitive legislation and ambush marketing. Sponsorship in Safe Hands is being held at the offices of Liedekerke in Brussels and will include a networking lunch. Prices start from €195 (exclusive of VAT) for ESA members and €275 (exclusive of VAT) for non members. Further details about reserving a place can be obtained by contacting Helen Lamb at the ESA on + 44 (0) 208 3903311 (email helenlamb@sponsorship.org) or Catherine Hubin at Liedekerke on +32 2 551 15 06 (email c.hubin@liedekerke-law.be).