It can now be revealed that Europalco, the largest provider of solutions for events and shows in Southern Europe, organised a spectacular audiovisual set-up for the Best of Belron 2024 competition held for 1,700 attendees at Lisbon’s MEO Arena back in June. Europalco suspended 411 motors, spanning over 3km with 1,795 pieces of truss, hung 100 tons of equipment from the ceiling and illuminated the arena with 1,100 light fixtures. The setup featured 48 high-resolution video projectors and 19 screens.
MEO Arena – the largest indoor venue in Portugal – entrusted Europalco to transform its space for the major event for Belron, global leader in vehicle glass repair and replacement. Europalco converted the arena into a multifunctional venue, accommodating competitors from over 30 countries. In a standout moment, Europalco precisely transformed 30 car competition stations into 1,300 dinner tables in just over two hours.
After six months of planning, Europalco deployed 130 professionals and 38 equipment trucks. Europalco’s technical team deployed powerful Christie Spyder X80 and X20 video processors to manage and switch between various video sources. The team also used 8 x Christie Boxers 4K30, 12 x Christie HD20K, and 12 x 16K projectors to deliver high-resolution projections across multiple event spaces.
Nineteen screens (18 in the plenary room and one in the Sala Tejo) were strategically placed throughout the venue, ensuring every attendee had clear visibility. These screens varied in size and characteristics, matching the specific needs of different zones.
One of the standout technological innovations was variable-speed motors, which enabled the stage to rise after the opening ceremony, freeing up space for the competition. This logistical agility was crucial in maintaining the event’s dynamic nature.
Sustainability was another pillar of Europalco’s approach, with the team utilising recyclable materials, FSC-certified wood, and energy-efficient LED lighting to reduce the event’s environmental footprint. The event’s heavy reliance on LED lighting helped reduce energy consumption without compromising quality.
Pedro Magalhães, founder and CEO of Europalco, said: “Delivering an event of this magnitude required careful coordination and technical excellence. This included creating a dynamic stage that could be raised and lowered to suit the needs of different event segments. We designed the stage not just as a backdrop but as a dynamic centrepiece that transformed throughout the event. Our innovative ‘flying’ stage allowed us to transition seamlessly between the opening ceremony and a more relaxed lounge area. This fluid transformation was essential to creating the dynamic atmosphere the event required.”
The large-scale transformation stemmed from advanced 3D design and careful planning. Led by David Nogueira, 3D designer and project manager at Europalco, the design team used software like Vectorworks for technical designs and Cinema 4D for rendering. These tools provided the client with detailed, realistic visualisations.
Nogueira added: “We went through five different versions of the design before settling on the final one. Each iteration required precise adjustments based on client feedback and logistical considerations, ensuring the final design was visually stunning, practical, and achievable within the venue’s constraints.”
