Former Grass Roots MD launches new agency

Des Mclaughlin, founder of HBI and former MD of Grass Roots Meetings & Events (now BCD M&E) has announced the launch of Meet, a venue sourcing and events agency based in Holland Park, London. Other members of Meet include directors Stefani Goodrem and Olivia Hughes who along with Duncan James and Liana Winzer have all joined from BCD M&E. Big Group Limited, an award-winning creative marketing agency has taken a shareholding in Meet. Mclaughlin said: “I believe that there is currently a sizeable gap in the meetings and events agency sector for clients wanting a truly independent service and looking to work with an agency who really understands the current venue market. The TMC’s takeover of the larger independent agencies has resulted in clients now having to choose between a largely transactional service or working with smaller agents with a limited service offering.” Goodrem added: “What is really exciting about Meet, is that we are creative, agile and flexible which provides clients with an alternative to event providers in the market today – we are committed to delivering a first class service coupled with expert venue knowledge and backed up by a can do attitude. Our strong ties with Big Group ensure that we can also provide truly creative solutions for clients who are looking to differentiate or refresh their events.” Hughes concluded, saying: “I am enormously excited and proud to be a part of a new- style agency which will truly be driven by service. To be able to start this journey with such an incredibly enthusiastic, knowledgeable and most importantly, fun group of people is a real privilege.”