Average 24-hour rates for conferences were largely static in September 2007 as procurement departments become more involved in booking events and keeping the costs down.

According to the latest UK Conference Benchmark from Conference Care, 24-hour rates dropped to £154 in September, compared with £155 in September 2006.

It warned that new guidelines from the Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply to cap expenditure on meetings and events would impact rates further.

However, accommodation rates grew year-on-year by 11.5% to £119.36 while the average day (or eight-hour) rate grew by 4.29%.

While Wednesdays and Thursdays remain the most popular days for events, the drive for cost savings and availability has boosted the popularity of Mondays and Fridays.

The leading cities for events outside London are Birmingham, Manchester, Bristol and Glasgow.

View the full report and tables here >>

The monthly reports from Conference Care benchmark meeting and conference expenditure, reflecting bookings from the UK’s major corporations and industry sectors.

The statistics - based on figures from group and independent hotels, academic venues, dedicated training centres and unique venues - cover eight- and 24-hour rates, rates by key UK destinations, lead-in times for events, conversion times, and key days and months.

Midlands-based Conference Care provides event management, venue-finding and technological solutions - including on-line bookings - for corporate and public sector buyers.