Talking Events Arena Group special: History, developments, and why the UK leads the overlay industry

In a special one-on-one episode of Talking Events, James Anderson, commercial director of Arena Group, talks about the rich history of the company and the way it has evolved to become one of the biggest names in the modern event industry. From its beginnings in 1765 as a sail and rope maker – including supplying the hangman ropes for the tower of London – Arena Group now works in some of the UK’s most prestigious locations, including the Henley Regatta, Lord’s Cricket Ground and Twickenham. During the conversation, James highlights why supplementing permanent venues with temporary structures makes financial sense, and also how it may help venues to research and develop their long-term infrastructure. “Britain is known for its overlay industry”, James told the podcast. “By that, we mean anything that can be put in on a temporary basis to facilitate major events, be they sporting, music or otherwise. Our experience has taught us how to do things to amazing standards, which has led to us working across the world and continuing to develop the global reputation that many UK suppliers have.” He also looks at how the internal fit-out of structures has had to adapt to cope with the modern demands of the end-user, and how open spaces are being transformed in to event venues by the level of expertise now available in the structure industry.