A SCOTS conference and events venue has revealed a major surge in bookings despite post-pandemic concerns about the industry.
Surgeons Quarter has revealed that conference and events bookings made during the six months from April to September 2022 were close to exceeding those of 2019.
Surgeons Quarter promotes, sells and manages all commercial activities held within The Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh (RCSEd) campus.
The business still has 91 confirmed events and a further 79 internal college bookings to take place in the final quarter of the year alone.
Occupancy rates at its 129-room Ten Hill Place, is sitting at over 98% for September and over 84% for October with encouraging figures recorded for the remainder of the year and into 2023.
Scott Mitchell is Managing Director of Surgeons Quarter, which puts profits back into the historic college to support RCSEd’s aims of advancing surgical care and improving patient outcomes worldwide.
He said: “Business events are central to the local and national economy – and we want to do all we can to drive that inward investment.
“We’re delighted to get back to these numbers of visitors and it’s encouraging to see such a strong picture for the rest of the year. However, with an ever-changing landscape we are mindful of ongoing industry challenges.
“During the pandemic, it was worrying to think we may never return to in-person events at this level – which would have been a massive blow to the industry and delegates as there is only so much that can be transferred to a virtual setting.
“Thankfully, that hasn’t been the case and we’re back playing host to events from all across the world.
“Our venue offers bespoke set ups across sectors and specialities as required – with our teams able to accommodate and cater to hundreds of people at one time.
“The team go above and beyond for delegates and guests – it’s their dedication that sets us apart in Edinburgh and we’re exceptionally proud of their achievements during such a busy period.”
The strong performance and forecasts follow on from a successful August, with the venue hosting more than 160 Festival Fringe performances across 10 spaces.
Surgeons Quarter has also invested in its 178-strong team with a selection of certified courses and training offered as multiskilling has been a key aspiration in response to growing demand.
