Modern Slavery Statement

Risk Profile

In a normal year^[1] we have ca. 75 events taking place in 11 countries. We currently employ ca. 800 people in 14 global offices. We are aware that а number of countries in which we operate have a higher Modern Slavery risk than others (for example, Indonesia, India)^[2].  ln addition, our events include certain industry sectors where Modern Slavery may be more prevalent, for example in the construction or manufacturing sectors.

As a result of this, we have taken a number of steps to address our safeguarding responsibilities and create a clear framework across the business to address Modern Slavery.

Our Framework

Anti-Slavery and Human Trafficking Policy

Our Group-wide Anti-Slavery and Human Trafficking Policy demonstrates a global commitment to address Modern Slavery in our business. The policy gives workers, contractors and other business partners guidance on Modern Slavery and clearly states the measures in place to tackle Modern Slavery in its business and supply chains.

Risk Assessments

In 2019 and 2020 we assessed our current risks in respect of Modern Slavery, based upon the findings of the Global Slavery Index report and in reference to the following criteria:

• the Group’s geographical footprint by event;
• geographical footprint by offices from which we operate; and
• event sector profile in each country.

Code of Conduct

In March 2020 we launched our global Code of Conduct which expressly includes a section dedicated to Modern Slavery. This Code acts as an umbrella to other key policies central to the Group’s values and operations, namely: whistleblowing, bribery and corruption, conflicts of interest, competitive behaviour, bullying and harassment in the workplace, discrimination, health and safety, data protection, share dealing and sanctions. Training on the Code and other Group policies was implemented to ensure that our employees understand our obligations when it comes to operating in a fair and ethical way.

Whistleblowing

There are arrangements in place for concerns to be raised, anonymously if needed, via our whistleblowing process and systems. In particular the Group operates a 24-hour multi-lingual and multi-platform reporting line.

The next steps

Last year we stated that our operational and health and safety teams (whether internal or external as applicable) would select a number of our events in high-risk areas for visits and assessment in the “build up” and “break down” phases of our events process which carry a higher likelihood of incidents occurring. Due to ongoing travel restrictions this has not been possible during our financial year ended 30 September 2021. However, as travel restrictions ease, we will re-activate this process and, in particular, visit operations where we perceive risks to be highest and will conduct audits and draw up action plans. The travel restrictions have not prevented us from having oversight of this area. Over the past year, we have virtually engaged with all of our operational leads in the regions/portfolios and we have obtained updated information in all areas of risk including reinforcing the importance of combating modern slavery.

Last year we also stated that we would review and investigate any reports made pursuant to the Anti-Slavery and Human Trafficking Policy or under our whistleblowing reporting processes. During the financial year, no reports were made. We remain committed to reviewing and investigating any reports made pursuant to the Anti-Slavery and Human Trafficking Policy or under our whistleblowing reporting processes.