Navigating Accountex 2023: Insights and Highlights from the Annual Accountancy Conference

Accountex is an annual Accountancy & Finance Conference and Expo held in London, showcasing global brands and their software solutions, along with CPD events, keynote speakers, and the latest industry trends. It presents a fantastic opportunity to stay updated on the latest developments in tax, compliance, AML, and audit. Additionally, it serves as a great platform for networking, allowing attendees to connect face-to-face with both existing and new suppliers.

Having attended Accountex for the second time, here are some key takeaways for those planning to visit.

Plan Your Journey:

London is a vast city, and without proper navigation, it's easy to get lost. The Accountex website provides useful tips on how to get there and where to stay. Ensure you allocate sufficient time for travel to the show. The expo is held at The ExCeL Centre (Exhibition Centre London) in East London, Royal Docks area. It is well-connected via public transportation, with the nearest DLR stations being Prince Regent for the east entrance and Custom House for ExCeL for the west entrance. If you're traveling from Ireland, flying into London City Airport and taking a short walk or a taxi ride (approximately £10) would be your best option.

Accommodation:

While there are several hotels within walking distance of the venue, they tend to be expensive, and the surrounding area doesn't offer much in terms of entertainment. Most bars and restaurants close early, around 10 pm. I recommend staying in central London, where you can find competitively priced, high-quality hotels. You can easily commute to Accountex using the DLR or underground, which takes around 20-30 minutes. This way, you'll have more options for dining and activities in the evenings, whether you choose to stay near the venue for after parties or explore the city's attractions.

Set Clear Objectives:

Before attending Accountex, you should define your objectives. With the conference growing in size each year, there is a wealth of information available. By setting clear objectives, you can plan your visits to specific exhibitors and seminars that will provide the greatest benefit to your business.

Networking Opportunities:

Accountex offers an excellent platform for networking, sharing ideas, and building relationships with professionals in the accounting industry. Be proactive in introducing yourself and expanding your circle of business contacts. It's also an opportunity to catch up with existing contacts. I had a great conversation with Sarah Broderick from Circit , a provider we use for all our audit confirmations and I also had a chance to chat with Brian Carolan from AutoEntry. Jacqui Nelson and Alan Nelson from accountingcpd were also exhibiting. Being a long-time user of accountingcpd, it was a great to finally meet the people behind the laptop screen and have a face-to-face conversation.

Some exhibitors also host after-parties where you can meet new faces. I attended the Ignition after party and the pleasure of meeting Tom Whittle who introduced me to the delightful adventure of exploring London and enjoying a scenic Thames Clipper.

Time Management:

I recommend arriving when the show opens. While two days may seem long, there is a significant amount of information to absorb. I found the second day to be more productive, as it was less crowded, allowing for more meaningful conversations without feeling rushed. As the venue is vast, it takes some time on the first day to familiarize yourself with the layout and locate the exhibitors and CPD events you wish to attend.

Take Breaks:

With the large size of The ExCeL, you can expect to spend a lot of time on your feet. Remember to take regular breaks and allow yourself some downtime. There are plenty of areas to relax, enjoy free coffee, and engage in friendly chats or networking.

Seminars and Keynote Speakers:

Accountex features many prominent keynote speakers and industry leaders delivering talks throughout the event. While it's impossible to attend all of them, select the seminars that align with your interests and plan your day and breaks accordingly.

Freebies and Special Offers:

Exhibitors often offer interesting marketing materials and novelty gifts at their stands. Take the opportunity to collect branded pens, notepads, water bottles, and more. I recall Sage having a free bar this year, and I even saw iPads being given away as prizes. Additionally, Accountex may have exclusive discounts and special offers available for delegates. Make sure to read the free show guide to identify where you can take advantage of these opportunities.

Business Cards:

Remember to bring plenty of business cards to exchange with the professionals you meet. It's difficult to remember everyone you interact with if there is no business card exchange.

Connect Online:

After Accountex, it's easy to slip back into your day-to-day routine. Take the initiative to reach out and connect with the professionals you met at the show. Engage with them on platforms like LinkedIn, or email. This will help solidify the relationships and open doors to new opportunities in the future.

Enjoy Your Time:

Accountex provides two days of valuable insights, but it's also an excellent opportunity to explore London, a vibrant city with countless attractions. Make the most of your time and enjoy yourself both at the event and beyond its boundaries.

We hope these tips help you make the most of your experience at Accountex. Safe travels and have a fantastic time!