ASSIGNMENT
Built in 1725 by Thomas Watson-Wentworth. Wentworth Woodhouse a Grade 1 Heritage listed building with a 600ft palatial facade became the home of the Fitzwilliam family from the 1800’s until 1944. With just over 300 rooms it was then sold to the Newbold family until the final owner died in 2015.
In 2016 the Government stepped in to save the House ‘for the nation’ by offering a £7.6m grant. Following further funding from the National Trust, GFG consultants were then approached by the Trustees to undertake a Ten year strategic events business plan. As the Estate only has 87 acres our focus was on both public, private and corporate events and our report included recommendations on staff infrastructure required to support events at both the Stables, House, Conservatory and walled Gardens.
Output and Results
During this six month audit, our consultants investigated and reviewed the following:-
- Undertook qualitative market research on other ‘wedding venues’ to understand the market opportunities/pricing structure from both the Western and Asian market. As well as the stunning Marble Salon with its 40ft stucco ceiling we reviewed and identified potential events which could take place in the surrounding gardens, including the Camelia House.
- With the impending works to replace the three acres of ‘roof’ including the renovation of most of the State rooms, the emphasis of our report was focused on public events which could be held in the parkland. This included approaching a range of event management companies involved in organising events from musical Concerts, Battle re-enactments, outside Theatre/Cinema productions, Food and Drink festivals, Antique shows, Classic Cars to Christmas light shows.
In conclusion, our report recommended an outlined staffing infrastructure for both the short and medium term. We also included a Sales/Marketing/PR plan to establish long term supplier partnerships whilst the renovation work continues for the next ten to fifteen years.