Language service agency TranslateAble bolstered
Excel London’s traffic team by providing onsite language professionals during
one of its largest trade show build and breakdown operations, in a first-of-its-kind approach.
November’s WTM London, which attracted a
record-breaking number of exhibitors, is one of Excel’s highest traffic events
and presents unique logistical challenges. In an innovative approach to
further ease traffic flow, TranslateAble provided onsite interpreters fluent in
English, Hungarian, Serbian and Polish to work alongside Excel’s traffic team,
helping to streamline communication with drivers and event suppliers.
The additional on-the-ground support enabled
Excel’s dedicated traffic team to handle driver and supplier queries faster,
especially for those for whom English was not their first language.
With some drivers arriving with limited details
or visiting the venue for the first time, interpreters communicated essential
instructions on specific parking areas, directions and stand locations, helping
to ensure that the build and breakdown stages remained on schedule.
This marks the first time interpreters have been
used by a venue to address traffic coordination in this way, representing a new
initiative aimed at enhancing operational efficiency and inclusivity.
Kerrie Kemp, director of venue operations at
Excel, said: “Here at Excel, we are constantly looking at new investments
and initiatives to make our venue even more accessible and efficient for
everyone who uses it. During WTM London, the TranslateAble interpreters played
a crucial role in maintaining the flow of traffic, clearing vehicle areas
promptly, and enhancing the experience for both drivers and the Excel team. We’re
delighted with how successful the trial went, and we will be exploring further
opportunities again in the future.”
Julia Danmeri, CEO of TranslateAble, added: “When
we were approached by Excel to provide these services, we leapt at the
opportunity. As an event organiser, I’m passionate about supporting venues and
organisers in exploring new initiatives to improve operational efficiency.
Inclusivity and accessibility are essential throughout every phase of event
delivery. Too often, the focus is solely on attendees and the show floor, but
it’s equally vital to consider everyone involved from the very start of the
event process. Suppliers and their teams are crucial parts of the show, and
this initiative benefited the entire event supply chain from organisers to
venue staff to suppliers. We hope this collaboration inspires similar
initiatives at events around the world.”
