International Event Management: Bridging the Gap between Theory and Practice

The event industry is a robust economic force worldwide. It spans into many other important sectors like travel, tourism, hospitality, technology, media and communication, inter alia. In America, it is estimated that 18 million events are organised yearly generating approximately $280 billion spending and $66.8 billion labour income (Event Industry Outlook 2016). Events showcase talent, and are perhaps those moments when societies and communities group together to revive certain traditions and cultures, which are otherwise dormant. In other contexts, like the case of tourism, events create economic value for the hosting destination, which boosts the economy. In contrast to permanent attractions, an event has the potential to promote authenticity and hence, is increasingly tapped by marketers for the purpose of differentiation. For instance, destinations celebrate their unique culture and heritage through events which represent important milestones in their tourism history. Given their capacity to attract visitors and generate profit, tourism destinations are increasingly capitalising on events as a diversification strategy. This trend has undoubtedly precipitated popularity in event studies and hence the writing of this book. The landscape of the book covers a broad spectrum of research. The chapters explore the changing dimensions in the industry based on the following themes:  Event Management Trends and Policies  Events and Destination Image and Preference  Events and Education  Events, Attendees and Organisers In the present book an attempt is made to cover a wide range of events (sport, cultural, festivals and weddings) and issues related to the organisation and management of these events (policies, terrorism, etc.). The chapters also provide solutions and strategies for the organisation of successful events (protocol, etc.). The book also offers an opportunity to understand attendees from a consumer behaviour point of view. More importantly, some chapters cover events from an education point of view by examining the question from a Higher Education perspective (universities) but also from an event organiser angle (what is done to make people aware of sustainability). The editors have invited academics from Africa (Kenya, Algeria), South America (Argentina), Europe (England, Italy and Greece), Middle East (Abu Dhabi) to contribute 13 chapters in the fields of their expertise. With its perfect combination of theoretical and practical issues, this book aims to share with readers the knowledge needed to professionally manage events in different fields. The latest trends including the key theories, concepts and case studies related to event management are presented in a manner that intellectually stimulates readers to get ready for an experiential learning journey. This book will enable readers to understand the impact of events on destination management organisations, explain the role of events in promoting international sport competitions, and understand the key issues in planning and designing collaborative partnerships in event management. Each chapter features a real-life case study to highlight key concepts and replace theoretical concepts with practical solutions to effectively approach the organisation of events, as well as preparing readers to tackle any challenges they might face in their future opportunities to manage events.