A Little Trip Down Memory Lane… The Beginning of Forum Events
Founded in 1996 within the modest surroundings of Mill Studios, Forum Events began with a vision, a handful of tools, and an abundance of determination.
This was a very different era of business. There were no PCs, no email, and no marketing automation platforms just a box of index cards, a telephone, and the discipline to ensure nothing was ever misplaced. Leads were carefully recorded by hand, and success depended as much on organisation as it did ambition.
Those early days were defined by resourcefulness. Office space was tight so much so that if more than one new starter joined, a coin would often decide who claimed the spare chair. The alternative reflected the team’s ability to adapt and make things work, no matter the circumstances.
The iconic sound of the fax machine became a cornerstone of daily life, sparking a rush of excitement across the office. Each incoming booking was a moment of celebration, with team members proudly marking their success in the well-known “red book” a symbol of achievement that remains part of Forum’s heritage.
The event matching process was a far cry from today’s technology-driven approach. Managed entirely by post, it could take over a month to complete yet this pace-built anticipation and often saw targets exceeded well in advance.
Marketing activity was equally hands-on. Campaigns involved manually feeding sheets into fax machines for hours, while mail-outs meant transporting boxes of materials home and assembling them by hand a true reflection of the team’s commitment and work ethic.
Despite the hard work, camaraderie sat at the heart of the business. From time spent together during the matching process to team lunches at the local pub, these moments helped shape a culture that still defines Forum Events today.
Founder Reflection
Former CEO and Founder Paul Rowney reflects on the journey:
“Looking back, it’s remarkable to see how far Forum Events has come. In 1996, we were told the concept ‘would never work’ — yet here we are, 30 years later, still thriving and never having needed external financial support along the way.
What started as a simple idea has evolved into a resilient, market-leading business that has successfully navigated recessions, industry shifts and even a global pandemic. I could never have imagined it would still be going strong beyond my own tenure. That longevity is down to the exceptional people who have shaped the business over the years, and those who continue to drive it forward today. I’m incredibly proud and grateful to all of them.”
These early experiences laid the foundations for what Forum Events is today — a business built on resilience, innovation, and, above all, its people.
As Forum celebrates its 30th anniversary, this is just the beginning of the story — a journey shaped by challenges and achievements and driven by the relationships and passion that continue to define its success.
Follow us on
Learn more: www.forumevents.co.uk
