17th - 21st May
OMNI Conference 2024
"Doing Business in Europe"
Location
DUBLIN, IRELAND
This year’s conference will be held just outside Ireland’s lively capital city, Dublin. A perfect combination of friendly, laidback and charming, Dublin offers a classic visitor experience, excellent social scene and stunning scenery, all framed by Dublin Bay and the Dublin Mountains.
From our base at the Fairmont owned 5 star property, Carton House Hotel, we will immerse ourselves in the culture and history of the city twice named Europe’s friendliest city! The weather may be mild, moist and changeable (it’s all about the right clothing!) but the OMNI 2024 Dublin programme will encompass all the delights of the urban hub that is Dublin and of course the craic!
Find out more about the city here or discover the rest of Ireland here.
Dublin airport services a variety of international hubs and there are several daily flights from Edinburgh.
Your Stay
Carton House Hotel
The venue for this year’s OMNI Conference is the beautiful Carton House Hotel.
Originally a lavish manor house that has been expanded and converted over time Carton House Hotel is now a luxury 5 star property set in 1,100 acres of sweeping Kildare parkland. Parts of the building are over 800 years old and if the walls could talk they would share stories of influence, uprising, royalty, aristocracy and celebrity! The property consists of the garden wing and Manor house, with most bedrooms in the extended garden wing of the hotel with terrace and balcony upgrades available or those looking to treat themselves suite upgrades in the main house.
Just 30 minutes outside of Dublin, Carton House offers everything – you may not want to leave!
Spacious grounds for cycling, walking and adventurous activities. A variety of quality dining experiences including whisky and wine tasting. On site spa and of course two golf courses within the grounds – the O’Meara Parklands course and the Montgomerie Links course.
Click here to view the estate map.
Full accommodation options can be found on our booking form. If you have any queries about accommodation please contact the OMNI Conference Office at conference@omnimoving.com
Itinerary
A summary of the itinerary is provided below but for full details click here.
Day 1 | Friday 17th May | Arrivals
OMNI will be providing arrival transfers from Dublin Airport to Carton House on Thursday 16th May & Friday 17th May.
Please ensure you provide your travel details on your registration form so your arrangements can be made.
OMNI Golf Tournament | (Prebooked | Additional Fee)
The 2024 OMNI Golf Tournament will take place at The K Club Palmer South inland links course, located approx 20 minutes from Carton House.
Optional Tours | (Prebooked | Additional Fee)
- Walking Tour of Dublin including choice of visit to either Guinness Storehouse, EPIC Museum or Teeling Distillery
- Malahide Castle visit including time to explore Malahide Castle & Gardens then lunch at the Abbey Tavern in Howth.
- Wicklow Tour | Powerscourt House & Gardens and Glendalough. Lunch at Wicklow Heather.
Alternatively, you can choose to relax in the hotel spa or explore the extensive grounds. Find out more here.
Evening | Welcome to Dublin!
Evening Cocktail Reception and Welcome Buffet in the Manor House Rooms at Carton House.
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Day 2 | Saturday 18th May | Business session & optional afternoon activities
Business session
Takes place in Carton Suite 1 & 2 | Lunch will be provided for all guests in Carton Suite 3.
09:00 – Welcome & Introduction by Steve Jordan
09:10 – 10:30 – Keynote speaker David McWilliams
10:30 – 10:50 – Coffee Break
10:50 – 13:00 – Johannes de Kam & Paul Barnes “Navigating Sustainability in the European and Global Market in the International Household Goods Moving Industry”
In this session, we delve into the pressing challenges, risks and opportunities that the sustainability agenda presents to the international household goods moving industry. This interactive session will explore the evolving regulatory environment, industry trends, and the pivotal role of stakeholders in shaping sustainability decisions. We’ll delve into the demands and expectations of various stakeholders, including clients, suppliers, employees, and potential new hires. By the end of the session, you will be equipped to understand the different ways in which the drive towards sustainability future proofs your company.
13:00 – Lunch
Optional Afternoon activities
Choose from several OMNI organised activities including Target Zone (axe throwing, laser clay, archery), Charity Bike Build, Carton House History Tour, Carton House Wine Tasting.
Or enjoy the many hotel activities and spa offering a variety of treatments as well as an indoor pool, gym, sauna, steam room and jacuzzi.
Party night!
An evening of music and dancing at The Old Storehouse in the heart of Dublin’s cultural quarter and the famous Temple Bar.
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Day 3 | Sunday 19th May | Business session & Optional Afternoon Dublin Tours
Business session
Takes place in Carton Suite 1 & 2 | Lunch will be provided for all guests in Carton Suite 3.
09:30 – Welcome & Introduction by Steve Jordan
09:35 – 10:30 – Johannes de Kam, Madeline van der Rhee (Gosselin), Lars Bakker (Voerman) report on Learning Circles from 2023 and the next phase of the OMNI Sustainability Project.
10:30 – 10:50 – Coffee Break
10:50 – 11:05 Chris Mackley OMNI Office update
11:05 – 11:20 – Mark Pitcher Financial Report.
11:20 – 11:50 AGM
11:50 – 12:30 Tonnage Awards
12:30 Lunch
Optional Afternoon Tours
Following the morning business sessions there will be another chance to visit some of the famous Dublin attractions. Choose from one of three options:
- Visit to Guinness Storehouse
- Experience EPIC Museum
- Tour and tasting at Teeling Distillery
Evening | Free
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Day 4 | Monday 20th May | Business session, Free Afternoon & Farewell Dinner
Business session
Takes place in Carton Suite 1 & 2 | Lunch will be provided for all guests in Carton Suite 3.
Afternoon at leisure
Farewell dinner
An evening of fine food, good company and enthralling entertainment at the spectacular Luttrellstown Castle.
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Day 5 – Tuesday 21st May Departures
OMNI will be providing return transfers from the Carton House Hotel to Dublin Airport on Tuesday 21st May only. Please provide details on your registration form to ensure arrangements are made. Exact timings and details will be emailed to you the day before your departure.
A summary of the itinerary is provided above but for full details click here.
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Excursions & Events
Please use the arrows to click through each event
OMNI GOLF TOURNAMENT
Friday 17th May | 07.15 – 15.00hrs (Optional – Additional Cost)
The K Club provides a unique golfing experience. Separated by the River Liffey both the North and South parkland golf courses were designed by legendary North American golfer Arnold Palmer whose iconic course designs are world-renowned.
The Palmer South course is designed primarily as an inland links course, combining a variety of interesting landscapes with dune-style mounding and dramatic rock features throughout. This is an authentic championship golf course with a multitude of cleverly elevated vantage points for spectators to view golf pros at play.
Palmer South has hosted some of golf’s most exciting moments, from the excitement of the 2004 Smurfit European Open to the closing stages of the 2007 Smurfit European Open.
WALKING TOUR OF DUBLIN – OPTION 1 - A VISIT TO EPIC THE IRISH EMIGRATION MUSEUM
Friday 17th May | 9:30am – 4.30pm (Optional – additional cost)
The walking tour through the vibrant city of Dublin encompasses its rich history, culture and lively atmosphere. Throughout the morning explore the charming streets and iconic landmarks of Dublin including Dublin Castle, Trinity College, Grafton Street, Temple Bar, City Hall and the Cathedrals.
Following a light lunch you will be transferred to your chosen Dublin attraction.
EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum | Twice winner of Europe’s Leading Tourist Attraction, EPIC is a fascinating museum where you can discover that what it means to be Irish expands far beyond the borders of Ireland through the stories of Irish emigrants who became scientists, politicians, poets, artists and even outlaws all over the world. Discover Ireland from the outside in and find out why saying “I’m Irish” is one of the biggest conversation starters, no matter where you are. Engage with their personal stories and engage with history in 20 interactive galleries
WALKING TOUR OF DUBLIN | OPTION 2 - A VISIT TO GUINNESS STOREHOUSE
Friday 17th May | 9:30am – 4.30pm (Optional – additional cost)
The walking tour through the vibrant city of Dublin encompasses its rich history, culture and lively atmosphere. Throughout the morning explore the charming streets and iconic landmarks of Dublin including Dublin Castle, Trinity College, Grafton Street, Temple Bar, City Hall and the Cathedrals.
Following a light lunch you will be transferred to your chosen Dublin attraction.
GUINNESS STOREHOUSE | Visit one of the most iconic buildings in Ireland, indeed the world! The Storehouse, a warehouse of the original Guinness brewery is of course home to “the black stuff”. On your visit you will learn how the famous brew is made, discover it’s history, reminisce over its advertising history, try pulling a pint and of course try a tipple (non-alcoholic versions available) all over 6 inter-active floors.
WALKING TOUR OF DUBLIN | OPTION 3 - A VISIT TO TEELING DISTILLERY
Friday 17th May | 9:30am – 4.30pm (Optional – additional cost)
The walking tour through the vibrant city of Dublin encompasses its rich history, culture and lively atmosphere. Throughout the morning explore the charming streets and iconic landmarks of Dublin including Dublin Castle, Trinity College, Grafton Street, Temple Bar, City Hall and the Cathedrals.
Following a light lunch you will be transferred to your chosen Dublin attraction.
TEELING DISTILLERY | Located in the heart of the historic Liberties, against the backdrop of a city steeped in whiskey history, the Teeling Whiskey Distillery opened its doors in 2015 as the first new distillery in Dublin for over 125 years. Teeling are proud to have brought the tradition of distilling back into the heart of Dublin city centre with the opening of the distillery.
Malahide Castle
Friday 17th May | 9:30am - 3:30pm (Optional – additional cost)
Set in 250 acres of parkland in the pretty seaside town of Malahide, about 40 minutes out from Carton House, Malahide is a magnificent medieval castle with an 800 year heritage and stunning parklands, gardens and Butterfly House. Following a guided tour of the castle there will be a chance to explore the picturesque grounds before heading off to the local seaside village of Howth and lunch at the World Famous traditional Irish pub and 17th century tavern the Abbey Tavern.
WICKLOW TOUR | POWERSCOURT ESTATE AND GLENDALOUGH
Friday 17th May | 9:30am - 5:00pm (Optional – additional cost)
Powerscourt Gardens are one of Europe’s great treasures and one of the most beautiful country estates in Ireland. 47 acres of gardens to explore, rated the 3rd best gardens in the world behind Versailles and Kew Gardens! Although there is also a house here, it was destroyed by fire in 1974 the night before it was due to open to the public. There is just a shell now but this houses Avoca café and shop which sells local gourmet treats and products, such as their famous throws, and clothing from Wicklow Mill.
The Wicklow Tour continues on for lunch at the Wicklow Heather Restaurant, idyllically situated in the picturesque village of Laragh deep in the Wicklow Mountains. Homely comfortable surroundings with a friendly service are the order of the day at the Wicklow Heather Restaurant.
After lunch we continue onto Glendalough Lakes and Monastic Site, where St. Kevin, descendent of one of the ruling families in Leinster, founded his monastery in the 6th century. The buildings that survive today date from between the 8th and the 12th centuries. The name “Glendalough” means “the glen of two lakes” in the Irish language. The two magnificent lakes surrounded by cliffs and rocks, nearby forests as well as waterfalls create an unforgettable scenery. Take the opportunity here to explore the many trails and observation points that offer spectacular views over the whole valley, lakes and the monastic city.
WELCOME RECEPTION at CARTON HOUSE
Friday 17th May | 19.00 – 22.00hrs
OMNI 2024 kicks off with informal welcome drinks and buffet in the stunning Manor House rooms at Carton House. A chance to catch up and also get to know your home for the next few days. Fingers crossed for fine weather to enjoy Carton House’s beautiful Rose Gardens.
OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES at CARTON HOUSE
Saturday 18th May | Afternoon (Included in fees)
Choose from a variety of activities taking place on the Carton House grounds.
- Targetzone | Take part in outdoor target based activities including archery (min age 7), axe throwing and laser clay pigeon shooting. Minimum age 12 years old.
- Charity Bike Build| The Charity Bike Build Workshop teaches you everything you need to know about putting a bike together, with a fun and enthusiastic approach. Bikes are built with the help of our mechanics and given the stamp of approval before being donated to a charity of your choice.
- Carton House Hotel History Tour | On this 45 minute tour of Carton House learn all about its rich history dating back to 1739 and of the aristocrats and celebrities who have walked its halls. Find out more here.
- Wine Tasting | Set in what was once the game hanging room at Carton House, the Duke’s Rest, be guided by the hotel’s resident expert, through a variety of wines from around the world.
Please register your interest for these tours on your registration form.
Alternatively make use of the Spa and Wellness Centre offering a variety of treatments as well as an indoor pool, gym, sauna, steam room and jacuzzi.
PARTY NIGHT at THE OLD STOREHOUSE
Saturday 18th May | 17.30 – 20.45hrs
A visit to Dublin is not complete without the Craic! And nowhere does it better than The Old Storehouse in the heart of Dublin’s cultural quarter, Temple Bar. Enjoy a traditional Irish evening of good food and drink and of course music and dancing!
Our exclusive hire ends at 8.45pm but don’t panic, the party continues at the Old Storehouse until 2am with 3 floors of music and dancing. Coaches will be staggered back to Carton House for those that wish to get back and relax or for those who wish to continue the party!
OPTIONAL ADDITIONAL TOURS
Sunday 19th May | Afternoon (Included in fees)
Following the morning business sessions there will be another chance to visit some of the famous Dublin attractions.
Choose from one of three options:
- EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum | Twice winner of Europe’s Leading Tourist Attraction, EPIC is a fascinating museum where you can discover that what it means to be Irish expands far beyond the borders of Ireland through the stories of Irish emigrants who became scientists, politicians, poets, artists and even outlaws all over the world. Discover Ireland from the outside in and find out why saying “I’m Irish” is one of the biggest conversation starters, no matter where you are. Engage with their personal stories and engage with history in 20 interactive galleries
- GUINNESS STOREHOUSE | Visit one of the most iconic buildings in Ireland, indeed the world! The Storehouse, a warehouse of the original Guinness brewery is of course home to “the black stuff”. On your visit you will learn how the famous brew is made, discover it’s history, reminisce over its advertising history, try pulling a pint and of course try a tipple (non-alcoholic versions available) all over 6 inter-active floors.
- TEELING DISTILLERY | Located in the heart of the historic Liberties, against the backdrop of a city steeped in whiskey history, the Teeling Whiskey Distillery opened its doors in 2015 as the first new distillery in Dublin for over 125 years. Teeling are proud to have brought the tradition of distilling back into the heart of Dublin city centre with the opening of the distillery.
FAREWELL DINNER AT LUTTRELLSTOWN CASTLE
Monday 20th May | Evening
A small but charming 15th century castle with extensive beautiful grounds, Luttrellstown Castle is the ideal exclusive location for the OMNI Farewell Dinner. We don’t want to give too much away but you can be sure of a fun evening of exquisite food, enthralling entertainment and maybe some dancing!
Business sessions
David McWilliams is an economist, author, journalist, documentary-maker and broadcaster. He is Adjunct Professor of Global Economics at the School of Business Trinity College Dublin. and is ranked 10th most influential economist in the world. He produces a weekly economics podcast which has repeatedly topped the Irish and English podcast charts.
David is co-founder of the world’s only economics and stand-up comedy festival Kilkenomics – described by the FT as “simply, the best economics conference in the world”. He also founded Ireland’s leading literary and ideas shindig, the Dalkey Book Festival. The WEF at Davos debased their currency profoundly by making him a Young Global Leader a few years back.
With the objective to make economics digestible and engaging for all, David draws on his unique sense of humour when he travels the globe speaking on growth trends, geo-politics, currencies, financial markets and the link between economics and the individual and cultural psyche.
Consistently accurate in his forecasts, David McWilliams was the only economist in Ireland who accurately forecast a strong UK Brexit vote, the Trump victory and the 2008 global crash. David is ranked the 10th most influential economist in the world and as such is a regular on the international speaking circuit.
David has written five bestsellers and one of these The Pope’s Children is the best selling nonfiction ever published in Ireland. His writing style is described by Bloomberg’s head of economics Stephanie Flanders, as having “a great knack for bringing a complex economics story to life. He is also funny. In economics, that’s a rare and persuasive combination.
He is very active on social media and is the third most widely followed economist in the world with 238,000 Twitter followers. He writes a weekly economics column for The Irish Times and is a regular international contributor to the Financial Times.
Once upon a time he had a real job working as an economist first in the Irish Central Bank and later as Chief European Economist at UBS and Head of Emerging Markets Research at Banque Nationale de Paris. He studied economics at Trinity College Dublin and the College of Europe in Bruges.
David has recently launched his new online economics course – "International Trade and Money". Additionally, his series of animated economics videos – Punk Economics – have been viewed by over 2,000,000 people so far.
In all his speeches, David reaches beyond the conventional, challenging his audiences to think differently about the world, because it is in thinking differently that innovation and progress are bred.
Paul, with over 35 years of experience in the mobility industry, possesses a wealth of knowledge in sustainability. His expertise spans various areas, including the Circular Economy, Scope 1, 2, and 3 Emissions, Materiality, Science-Based Targets (SBTi), the UN Global Compact, Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) standards, Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP), EcoVadis and the important areas of strategy and implementation.
Paul’s thought leadership extends beyond theory. He has developed and implemented sustainable practices and has been published and quoted by organizations such as EuRA, FEM, FIDI, and Mover magazine. He is also the visionary behind the industry’s first sustainability educational program for EuRA which launched in January 2022. As a dedicated advocate, Paul actively contributes to sustainable practices and serves as a member of the WERC Sustainability Advisory Council.
Furthermore, Paul collaborates with global mobility professionals and service providers, guiding them toward transformative thinking, practices, and policies that lead to a positive and sustainable future.
Dr Johannes de Kam is a trainer, researcher and consultant, focused on bringing together industry leaders to take critical, and collaborative approaches to issues pertaining to sustainable Global Mobility. Johan is a regular speaker at both academic and professional conferences, and is known for his leadership in designing award winning learning strategies for sustainable change. Johan holds a fellowship with Institute of Advanced Learning at the University of Warwick and works across the global mobility industry in pursuit of developing more socially and environmentally sustainable mobility processes.
Travel
AIRPORT TRANSFERS
OMNI will be providing arrival transfers from Dublin airport to Carton House Hotel on Thursday 16th May and Friday 17th May and departure transfers to Dublin Airport on Tuesday 21st May. Please ensure you provide your travel details on your registration form if you require a transfer.
VISA REQUIREMENTS
EU Citizen / European Economic Area – You don’t need a visa if you are a EU citizen or from a country in the European Economic Area (Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein)
Short Stay ‘C’ Visa – Citizens of visa-required countries can apply for a short stay visa for visits up to 90 days.
Short Stay Visa Waiver Programme – Allows nationals of certain countries, who have entered the UK on a UK short stay visa, to travel to Ireland without the requirement to obtain an Irish visa.
Conference Visa for Ireland here
Irish Immigration Service (irishimmigration.ie)
Visas for Ireland – Department of Foreign Affairs (dfa.ie)
Please note that your passport must be valid up to the return date of your trip to the island of Ireland
If you require assistance with invitation letters please contact the Omni Conference Team.
Please note that each delegate is responsible for ensuring they have the correct entry documents for their visit to Ireland. Please be sure to check your own personal situation. OMNI, or agents of OMNI cannot be held responsible for your failure to secure entry into Ireland.
Additional Info
Money
The local currency is the Euro. Only change money at official money exchange counters with a clear sign showing this status.
Credit cards are widely accepted but, in rural areas particularly, you should carry cash as a back-up. Travellers cheques will be difficult to cash. ATMs are widely available in Dublin and tourist areas.
Mobile phones
Please contact your mobile provider to check the coverage and charges within the Republic of Ireland.
Climate
Weather in May should be warm but bring clothing that will serve you in all weathers. We recommend you bring some waterproof clothing for any outdoor activities. Average temperatures of 8ºC (46ºF) and highs of 15ºC (59ºF).
Safety
Most visits to Dublin are trouble free but you should take sensible precautions to protect yourself and your belongings in Dublin city and tourist areas. Remain alert to your belongings, particularly in crowded areas.
Healthcare
Make sure you have adequate travel health insurance and accessible funds to cover the costs of any medical treatment.
Gratuities
Tipping for service is not expected in Dublin but is most certainly appreciated.
Electricity Supply
The electricity voltage of Dublin is 230v/50Hz. Plug type G (Three pins) fit sockets in Ireland.
Emergency Telephone Numbers in Republic of Ireland
Police: 999 or 112
Fire: 999 or 112
Emergency: 999 or 112
Dress code
For the conference as a whole the dress code is smart casual but for specific events please refer to the information in the itinerary.
Benefits
Delegate list
Contact Us
For any queries regarding the conference please contact OMNI Conference Team
conference@omnimoving.com | +44 (0)1543 439708