Beam, the UK trade association for the business events, accommodation and meetings industry, raised £4,560 for industry charity foundation Meeting Needs at its annual gala dinner at The Grand Birmingham.

More than 240 people attended, including VIPs representing government offices and 14 beam members kindly provided prizes for the fund-raising. Members thanked outgoing chair Julie Shorrock (Hotel & Travel Solutions) and welcomed incoming Chair Louisa Watson of Wyboston Lakes. David Tremmil, MD of Inloco Events and vice chair of UKEvents was named vice chair. The theme of a colour affair was Bridgerton. Meeting Needs was supported by the beam ESG Action Group with the fundraising.

Julie Shorrock, outgoing chair, said: “The last year has been transformative for beam. We’ve made incredible strides in raising our profile, strengthening partnerships, and setting the foundation for further growth.

“I am immensely proud of what we’ve accomplished and want to thank our members, partners, and the board for their passion and commitment. With Louisa and David now at the helm, I’m confident beam will continue to thrive for our industry and members.”

Meeting Needs Vice Chair Lene Corgan said: “We are really grateful to beam for their contribution to our fund-raising this year. We are delighted that leading industry trade associations continue to support the industry´s only charity foundation, enabling us to fund projects in the UK and overseas that change lives.”

  • To learn how you can work with Meeting Needs, please contact Margaret Mann at mmann@meetingneeds.org.uk