Event sector in Belgium took action against the ambiguity which is destroying the industry. #SOS: 5 after 12 for the events sector is the latest campaign which aims to raise the issue of struggling Belgian events sector. Hashtag #SoundOfSilence was trending on social media in Belgium during last days as various stakeholders denounced the lack of government support.
The event organisers claim that corona-proof events are possible. We share their call to the public:
Why are we sending this press release? Because it is 5 past 12 to revive our sector. The water is on our lips and it is time for action. For the 70,000 annual events that are so dear to us all and for the more than 80,000 people who are active in this sector. People like you and me.
Why is it time for action?
Events have an enormous added value for the feeling of togetherness in our society. From festivals to weddings to fairs and conferences. Meeting people enriches our lives. Even if it has to be done from 1.5 meters away. In addition, many people are active throughout the event sector. People who have built up years of, or even lifelong, expertise. That knowledge is now in danger of disappearing. They lose their job en masse or are forced to change professional direction.
We invested in research, we bought thermal cameras, we stocked up on hand gels and mouth masks en masse, we went in search of digital and hybrid possibilities and adapted our offices with Plexiglas and our operation to bubbles. And now?
What do we do
The Alliance Belgian Event Federation has already done a great job behind the scenes, in collaboration with the various trade federations (ACC, Febulex, BESA …). We now want to step into the spotlight and go one step further. Because the lights go out softly at many companies in the event sector. The 3,000, that’s how many companies. And in the past five months, they’ve seen their income drop by 90 percent. That’s why Creative Rental Solutions RS, Pixelscreen, SLV Rent, AB Sound, Splendit, Ampli, 4U-Renting and John & Jane join forces in an appeal to the government. Don’t stop the music, don’t let the lights go out. We are 100% prepared for corona proof events. We just ask for a chance to prove it.
That is why we are launching a #SOS for the entire sector. We ask all companies active in the events market to make a massive statement on Monday 10 August 2020 at 5 past 12 to make. By harnessing the power of social media. So that our voices are heard. So that the #SoundOfSilence is ended.
