ACC Liverpool and its catering partner Centerplate are to provide allergy advice to delegates with Allergy Champions staff will be on hand at every conference at the venue to offer expert knowledge on requirements.
ACC Liverpool, home to BT Convention Centre, Echo Arena and Exhibition Centre Liverpool, launched the initiative after an increase in requests from visitors with dietary needs.
The new service was unveiled at the annual conference of the European Association for International Education (EAIE).
Gareth Morris, Centerpate general manager – catering options, said: “Providing a varied and nutritious menu is a very important aspect of every conference. However some visitors may be unsure as to what they can and cannot eat if they have dietary needs.
“Our specially selected allergy champions are on hand at every conference to advise delegates on refreshments, for example some may require gluten free food as a result of allergies. The team received additional training on allergens and wear green shirts so they are easy to identify.
“It means attendees can concentrate on the conference programme and enjoy networking over lunch rather than spending their time consulting the menu.”
The EAIE brought 5,200 higher education professionals to Liverpool for its 28th annual conference with catering stations located on the arena floor. Anne Berrevoets, events coordinator at the EAIE, said: “This is the first time that any venue has suggested stationing allergy champions during our conference and we found it worked really well. It meant that delegates knew exactly what was on the menu each day and if they had any questions about specific needs then catering staff were on the ground – available to respond and offer advice immediately.”
