On the Spot 4-1-2003

Meetings & Conventions: Short Cuts April 2003

April 2003

Short Cuts:
On the SpotDo you have a problem with attendees booking outside of your room block?

“Somewhat, but you cannot stop such people. I tell them, ‘We have to book blocks to make sure there are enough rooms.’ That said, if they book a cheaper room at the headquarters hotel, it doesn’t hurt me those rooms are credited to my block.”

Emily S. Matthews
Director of Meetings and Membership
Texas Mini Storage Association
Round Rock, Texas

“No, it is not a great concern for us, as our meetings, mostly held in third-tier cities, are small in size, so our members tend to choose to be together in the same property. Our next event is being held in Raleigh, N.C.”

Stacey Sharpeless
Meeting Planner
Biscuit and Cracker Manufacturers’
Association
Silver Spring, Md.

“Most attendees see the benefit of staying at the headquarters hotel. We require a lot of event space in relation to the number of rooms we need, so our negotiated rates tend to be higher than average. Some members always will decide to find cheaper rooms.”

John Purcell
Executive Vice President
National Association of Miniature
Enthusiasts
Carmel, Ind.