SCALING UP EVENTS

DAF Graduation Ceremony 2024

The DAF Graduation Ceremony 2024 represented a significant leap from its predecessor in 2023. With a larger scale and heightened ambitions, this year’s event set a new benchmark. Lessons learned from the previous year informed every aspect of planning, ensuring a flawless execution despite the expanded scope. Compared to the 2023 graduation, which was smaller in scale, this year’s event required meticulous coordination and innovative solutions to accommodate over 500 guests and 100 apprentices.

Event Overview

The DAF Graduation Ceremony 2024 marked a milestone in event planning at Big Sound Marketing, showcasing the culmination of months of preparation and attention to detail. This grand event, attended by over 500 guests, was held at the Birmingham Hilton Metropole, our largest venue yet. The theme, “Power Your Future,” highlighted the introduction of DAF’s new electric trucks and resonated throughout the event’s design, speeches, and video content.

Venue Selection

With a brief requiring accommodations for over 500 guests, including dining and overnight stays, venue options were limited. Following a site visit, the Birmingham Hilton Metropole was chosen as it met all requirements and offered an ideal setting for DAF Truck UK’s biggest event of the year.

Key Points

  1. Theme Integration: The “Power Your Future” theme was woven seamlessly into the event through custom graphics, dynamic speeches, and impactful video content. This thematic cohesion emphasised DAF’s innovative strides in the electric truck industry.
  2. Apprentice Management: Coordinating nearly 100 apprentices to go on stage, receive recognition, and exit smoothly required detailed planning and rehearsal. The apprentices’ performance on the day was a testament to the preparation and clear communication.
  3. Event Management: Every detail for the 500 guests was meticulously planned, including a three-course dinner and overnight accommodations.
  1. Project Management: From start to finish, Big Sound Marketing worked closely with the DAF Apprenticeships coordinators and the hotel events team, to ensure the graduation was a success. Regular communication ensured all deadlines were met and all parties were confident in the execution of the event.
  1. Seating and Dietary Needs: A comprehensive seating chart was developed and all dietary requirements were managed to cater to diverse preferences.
  2. RSVP System: An efficient RSVP system ensured smooth handling of responses and queries. This included general attendance records, hotel accommodation requirements in both single and group bookings and menu choices.

During the Event

  • Onsite Team: A dedicated onsite team was on hand to handle tasks such as assisting with moving a truck inside the room, putting up banners, and ensuring smooth on-the-ground operations to enhance the overall event experience.
  • Query Resolution: A dedicated team was available to address any guest enquiries promptly. Guests were met by our polite team, offering guidance and support throughout the arrival period.
  • Photography and Videography: Professional filming and photography captured the event’s highlights, preserving memories and providing material for post-event marketing.

Post-Event Activities

  • Highlight Reel: A professionally edited highlights video was created, serving as a lasting keepsake for apprentices and their families, as well as the perfect showcase of the event for the DAF Apprenticeships social media channels.

Results and Conclusion

The DAF Graduation Ceremony 2024 was a resounding success. Guests praised the seamless execution, thematic consistency, and the celebratory atmosphere. The event underscored DAF’s commitment to excellence, innovation, and fostering the future of the automotive industry.

The graduation ceremony set a new standard for large-scale events, showcasing the potential of thoughtful planning, detailed execution, and thematic storytelling. As DAF continues to innovate, events like these will remain pivotal in celebrating achievements and inspiring future progress.

Big Sound Marketing is dedicated to creating an innovative and creatively consistent event, no matter the scale. Get in touch to find out how we can assist you in planning an event your guests won’t forget in a hurry.