Events industry faces huge demands from 2012 Olympics

6 Jul 2005

The UK’s events industry will be ready to face the huge logistical demands posed by the awarding of the 2012 Olympics to London, according to Graham Langley-Jones, Managing Director of Thorns Group.

Speaking after the International Olympic Committee announced that the games would return to the UK for the first time since 1948, Mr Langley-Jones said: “Hosting the Olympics in London is likely to provide a huge challenge for UK suppliers, but one that we will look forward to meeting.

“The games will require tremendous amounts of equipment across London, whether for the many hospitality areas that will be created or for the athletes’ village, media centre or any number of specialist facilities such as police, medical or staff areas.”

He added: “I strongly believe that the events and hospitality industry in the UK is the best in the world. With the awarding of the Olympic Games to London we will see tremendous opportunities for all sectors of the industry. At Thorns Group – which has been a long-time supplier to many major sporting events – we would hope to be among those companies providing equipment and expertise in 2012.”

Graham also has personal reasons for welcoming the IOC’s decision. He explained: “As someone born in East London, I’m delighted that the Olympic Games will be hosted by this city in 2012. The IOC’s decision offers a tremendous boost for the East London Corridor, where most of the games will be staged, but will also benefit the whole capital – and the entire country.”