ATCON25

Autotrader’s annual, all-employee conference was designed to spotlight the strength of their current products and data offerings while aligning their sales team and encouraging connections across the team. 

The full-day conference was held in Central Hall, with a stage and AV set-up provided by Sterling Event Group and seating for all 1000+ delegates. Breakout sessions and lightening talks were then held in smaller rooms across the venue, along with several interactive activations. 

Following this, the venue was transformed from a full-scale daytime conference into an immersive evening experience featuring a dramatic entrance, bold lighting and two integrated entertainment acts providing a complete shift in atmosphere.

Such a tight turnaround required significant planning, and our team worked closely with the Planit team and Sterling in the lead-up to the event to create a minute-by-minute plan that mapped out every action, supplier movement and transition across the space. This level of precision meant that every team knew exactly where they needed to be and when, avoiding overlap, delays or confusion.

On the day, everything went seamlessly, and the teams met all the deadlines to turn the space around as planned before the attendees arrived back at the venue excited for the night ahead. 

When planning the event, catering was another key consideration for Planit, who view the food and drink experience as a key moment for connection and consideration. With this in mind, our Manchester Central team worked closely with the organiser to tailor a menu that worked with the flow of the event and elevated the overall experience. 

During the day, delegates were served a bespoke lunch menu that matched the organisers budget without compromising on flavour or service. The result was a menu that was vibrant and designed for speed, helping to keep queuing to a minimum and energy levels high throughout the day.

In the evening, instead of a traditional seated starter, substantial canapes were served during the drinks reception; this took place in our Charter Suite, which was the perfect space to allow for more socialising and less time sat at tables. The main course and dessert were then served banquet style in Central Hall, which also became the main party space. 

Topping off the night, a private afterparty was held in Junction, our on-site bar and restaurant, allowing attendees the opportunity to continue their night into the early hours.