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HOK Sport & Davis Langdon sponsor groundbreaking stadia session at Soccerex 2008

The new sector-specific approach for Soccerex 2008 will include a Stadia panel discussion, as part of the International Club Football Summit (IFCS), entitled ‘Making the most of your venue’s assets’.

The workshop will bring together stadium experts from around the world to discuss and share their knowledge on adapting or creating stadiums for the 21st century. This exclusive session will feature senior representatives from Hok Sport, Davis Langdon, Royal Sporting Club Anderlecht and Siemens.

Barry Lowe (Principal, HOK Sport) has been working for this globally-renowned sports architecture firm for over 10 years, overseeing the design and completion of illustrious venues such as the new Wembley Stadium, The 02 Arena, the Emirates Stadium and the Estadio da Luz in Portugal. His industry insight will prove invaluable to any football club seeking to develop their current venue or embark on creating a new stadium. Jon Coxeter-Smith (Partner, Davis Langdon) will share his company’s expertise on all aspects of stadia construction ranging from project management to legal support. Davis Langdon was contracted by Manchester City Council to oversee the creation of the multi-purpose 2002 Commonwealth Games venue which later became Manchester City FC’s ground. They are currently playing an integral role in the development of the London 2012 Olympic Complex.

Chris Lioen (Marketing Director, Royal Sporting Club Anderlecht) approached Soccerex to speak at this workshop and share his club’s experiences of planning a new stadium. The 29-times Belgian League champions are in the process of finalising the design of a state-of-the-art venue that will create revenue 365 days a year. Completing this line-up of industry experts is Peter van Gend (President, Major Events, Siemens) who currently works with venues to help maximize their ‘fan experience’. His division at Siemens excels in delivering a wide range of stadia services ranging from IT Solutions to advice on environmental sustainability.

With an audience of international football clubs and innovative stadia suppliers, this session will finish with a keynote address from an invited stadium director of a world-renowned stadium. The 90 minute workshop will present an unmissable opportunity for any football club wishing to maximize the economic potential of their club’s venue.

The Stadia workshop is one of six IFCS workshops that will focus on the key revenue streams available to football clubs (Player Development, Stadia, Law & Finance, Media, Licensing and Sponsorship). Each session will feature 90 minutes of networking, debate & a key note address from the leading figures in each of these industry sectors.