The NEC is investing in upgrades across its campus ahead of its 50th birthday.
The programme includes new wayfinding signage, upgraded digital infrastructure, a new ANPR car parking system, and food and beverage improvements delivered in partnership with Levy UK + Ireland.
The venue has worked with a wayfinding consultant to simplify signage across the campus. With 18 halls and more than 186,000 sqm of space, the NEC regularly hosts multiple events simultaneously. Streamlined maps, plain language and universal symbols have been introduced to make navigation easier.
Digital infrastructure has been enhanced with over 40 new screens installed and 61 existing screens upgraded. Five new large-format LED screens (10m x 3m) will be installed in the Atrium, providing brands the opportunity to reach thousands of visitors.
Through its partnership with Levy, the NEC has refurbished food units in Halls 4, 5 and 20, introducing self-order kiosks. Menus have been upgraded to include a grab-and-go range featuring Pure sandwiches, alongside freshly prepared dishes such as steak sandwiches and Levy’s signature burger. Menus will flex throughout the year to suit the event programme.
The NEC has invested £1.5m in a new hybrid ANPR-enabled barrier system to streamline the parking process.
Ian Taylor, exhibitions managing director at the NEC Group, said: “Everything we’re doing is about making visits to the NEC campus feel easier, more enjoyable and more memorable. We’ve listened to what our customers tell us they want, from clearer signage and faster service to better food choices and we’re acting on it. As we head towards our 50th birthday, it’s important that the NEC continues to evolve with our visitors and deliver experiences they’ll keep coming back for.”
