CHS Manchester has announced Manchester Central as the host and sponsor of ‘Manchester Calling’, the official curtain-raiser on 29 September, ahead of the main show day the next day…
Over 500 event professionals – including EAs, PAS and VAs are expected attend the AO Arena. Visitors will have a chance to meet over 250 UK and European exhibitors and attend expert talks on three education stages. There will also be live experiences across the show floor – a great way to see the creative side of the events industry.
You’ll leave with ideas you can use (and a few you hadn’t even thought to look for).
The city-wide fringe programme starts the day before CHS Manchester opens. Manchester Calling has been designed to ease the industry’s arrival in Manchester, reconnect with colleagues, meet new faces and start the conversations that will continue throughout the show.
That to look forward to at the Manchester Calling welcome ahead of CHS Manchester
The evening will begin with dedicated networking opportunities for both exhibitors and hosted buyers, before opening into a larger shared reception. Expect a relaxed and informal environment for the wider CHS Manchester community to come together. Hosted by Manchester Central, the evening will form part of CHS Manchester’s wider ambition to create an event experience that starts before the doors open and continues long after they close.
Emma King, Founder and CEO of CHS Manchester, said: “We’ve always believed that some of the best conversations happen before the event even begins. You’re catching up with friends, meeting new people, hearing what’s happening in the industry and starting conversations that often become opportunities later on.
“Manchester Calling is exactly what it sounds like. It’s our chance to welcome the industry to Manchester, set the tone for the event ahead and create an environment where people can relax, enjoy themselves and do business in the way our industry does best; through conversations, relationships and shared experiences.”
Stephanie Newton, Commercial Director at Manchester Central, added: “Manchester is a city known for bringing people together, so we’re delighted to be hosting Manchester Calling and helping to kick off CHS Manchester in style.
“The evening creates a fantastic opportunity for exhibitors, hosted buyers and industry professionals to connect in a relaxed setting before the show begins. It’s a natural extension of the hospitality and community spirit that both Manchester Central and CHS Manchester are known for.”
EAs, PAs and event professionals – registrations are now open
Manchester Calling will take place at Manchester Central on the evening before CHS Manchester opens (29th September), offering attendees the chance to settle into the city, connect with peers and begin their CHS Manchester experience ahead of a packed day of learning, networking and business.
More must-attend events for the business support community are listed on PA Life’s Events diary – see link on our homepage.


