For Jim McEvoy, Director of Event Technical Services (ETS), working with the Royal Ulster Agricultural Society (proprietors of the Eikon Exhibition Centre) isn’t just a professional arrangement — it’s a relationship rooted in history, trust, and mutual admiration.
From the historic King’s Hall to the modern expanse of the Eikon Exhibition Centre, Jim and his team have been at the heart of countless events, helping bring Northern Ireland’s largest agricultural shows, exhibitions, and trade events to life. “Like so many in Northern Ireland, we had a deep affection for the King’s Hall,” Jim reflects. “It held decades of memories for us. We knew every corner, every echo — we grew with it.”
Event Technical Services has been a steadfast partner to RUAS for decades, first in the form of A + C Electrical Services and laterally as Event Technical Services. That long-standing collaboration faced a turning point when RUAS transitioned from the iconic Belfast venue to its state-of-the-art home in Lisburn — the Eikon Exhibition Centre.
The move, though bittersweet, brought fresh energy and new possibilities. “The Eikon Exhibition Centre posed an exciting challenge,” Jim says. “Suddenly, we were working with a very different space — one that offered more flexibility, greater capacity, and an opportunity to work with diverse new events. We embraced it wholeheartedly and are delighted with all we achieve there.”
Working closely with the Eikon Exhibition Centre team as the site developed out and attracted larger events not only deepened the bond between the two organisations. Jim credits the Eikon Centre staff with fostering a spirit of collaboration and innovation that has made the new venue a hub for agricultural, commercial, and community events alike. “There’s a real trust and respect between us,” Jim adds. “We’re not just contractors; we’re part of the family. From decades of providing support for Balmoral Show right through to truck shows, we’re invested in making every event a success.”
Celebrating a Decade at Eikon Exhibition Centre
This year marks a significant milestone — the 10th anniversary of the Eikon Exhibition Centre. Over the past decade, the venue has grown to become one of Northern Ireland’s premier event destinations, hosting everything from major agricultural showcases to high-profile trade exhibitions.
Jim McEvoy and the ETS team have been there every step of the way. “To see the Eikon thrive over these ten years has been incredibly rewarding,” says Jim. “It’s a testament to the vision of the team and the hard work of everyone behind the scenes. We’re proud to have played our part in its success story.”
Looking Ahead
Looking to the future, Jim remains optimistic and enthusiastic about what lies ahead.
“We’re incredibly excited about what the future holds at the Eikon,” he says. “With the team’s vision and our continued partnership, there’s no limit to what we can create together. We see ourselves growing with them — supporting not just the legacy of these great events, but the innovations that will define them for years to come.”
As the venue continues to evolve and expand, the partnership with Jim McEvoy and Event Technical Services stands as a shining example of what can be accomplished through shared commitment, creativity, and a genuine love for the work.
