A conversation with James Drake-Brockman, Divisional Director of Packaging at Easy Fairs
BRW: What do you hope attendees will gain at your event/s?
The ethos of easyfairs is “visit the future” – this sits at the heart of what we aim to do with our shows. Give our attendees a chance to understand where their industry is heading, and also get equipped with the knowledge and contacts to help them progress in their own careers.
We will have great seminar content, focusing on specific industries and topics, as well as an exclusive partnership with the world’s leading packaging design awards, The Pentawards, that will take the form of a conference focusing on award winning case studies as well as a hands on display of the best designed packaging in the world. In addition there will be a host of packaging suppliers showcasing the latest innovations in packaging. Finally, through extensive networking opportunities it will allow like-minded packaging buyers to connect in a relaxed environment and share ideas on how to produce great packaging.
BRW: What discussions do you look forward to having with the attendees?
I am always keen to understand what people like, and dislike, about our events. Our shows are a tool that connects people and I am always looking for ways we can do this better. It’s also great to talk to attendees about their biggest challenges as that helps us shape our future events. I’m sure this will focus a lot on sustainability in September, and we intend to have a great selection of interesting and new solutions on display.
BRW: What do you enjoy most about your role?
A couple of things. First I love the feeling of achievement you get the night before a show opens when you walk around the event and see all the amazing booths and products on display. It’s a great feeling seeing the physical manifestation of all the hard work the team has put in over the previous 12 months.
BRW: How did you get into the industry?
Like most people, I fell into the events industry. I started helping out at events whilst at university to earn a bit of extra cash. Then whilst deciding what I wanted to do after university, I carried on, first as a floor manager, then moving into the commercial side of events. I never looked back.
BRW: Where is your favourite place in the world and why?
Café Nepenthe, Big Sur, California. I discovered it on a solo road trip from San Diego to San Francisco about 15 years ago and fell in love with it. 10 years later I took my wife there and popped the big question.