Five Guys Lisbon: Connecting teams with an overseas conference

At Saving Grace Events, we strongly believe in the power of events to unite and motivate people. Overseas events can be especially effective at igniting teams, taking them somewhere they’ve never been for fun, fresh energy, and a sense of belonging. 

In 2024, we celebrated our sixth year working with the international restaurant chain Five Guys. This iconic fast-food brand is committed to a company culture that values employees, which is why Five Guys annually brings together its general managers from across Europe for a corporate conference like no other. 

We delivered an unforgettable three-day overseas event, encompassing everything from travel, hotels, and food and drink to activities, entertainment and branding.

 

The brief: Connecting an international brand

Five Guys had a clear aim for their 2024 general managers conference: Coming together to celebrate and reward the achievements of the individual leaders within the business. They also wanted to communicate their company strategy for the year ahead, in a fun and engaging way. The challenge was to make this year’s conference even better than last year’s spectacle in Ibiza. 

 

The destination: Lisbon, Portugal!

We were tasked with sourcing a unique location that would appeal to a variety of ages. A picturesque and cool city, Lisbon is known for its rich culture, vibrant nightlife, delicious food, welcoming atmosphere and sunshine, making it the perfect choice for this year’s event. 

 

Powerful event branding

Having a strong visual brand presence is a key part of any successful corporate event, helping to reinforce brand identity, build a stronger community, and leave a lasting impression on employees.

From welcoming guests with branded goodie bags to decorating each venue with vibrant branding, we ensured Five Guys’ company values and culture were front and centre stage. This also includes the activities during the event, including a treasure hunt that tied well into Five Guys’ ‘competitive’ value.

 

The event experience

On arrival, guests enjoyed welcome drinks and canapes in the sun, with music from our resident DJ.

This was followed by a masquerade ball at the stunning Pátio da Galé, which was dressed with an extra large red carpet that stretched from the street through to the venue. Arriving in themed dress, guests enjoyed modern music played in a classical style by a string trio, alongside a three-course meal.

 After an awards ceremony, the venue was divided into two entertainment areas. In one room, event attendees could let their hair down at an after-party, with top tunes from a DJ. ‘Five Guys Has Got Talent’ took place in the other room, with karaoke for those brave enough to take to the mic. 360 photo booths allowed people to take fun snaps throughout the evening.

The second day kicked off with the main conference, which included a series of presentations from all of the country heads and Five Guys CEO John Eckbert. The aim of the conference was to celebrate achievements and align strategies for the year ahead.

After lunch, everyone was divided into teams for a treasure hunt around Lisbon. This activity reinforced the value of working together and winning together. 

Treasure hunt winners were announced at the final wrap party, which took place at premium venue SUD Lisboa, overlooking the Tagus River and 25 de Abril Bridge. Entertainment included caricaturists, photobooths, fire breathers, a saxophonist and DJ. Guests were also treated to an incredible selection of food, including giant paellas and a huge cheese table.

 

What makes a standout corporate conference?

Creativity makes a standout corporate event. It’s also important not to be overly formulaic and to think outside the box. The brand and its values should always lead when planning a conference.  

“Every time we do a conference with Saving Grace Events, they get to learn more and more about us. We’re also able to adapt and improve year on year and a lot of that’s down to the help of Saving Grace. Its absolutely great to be working with them as always.” – Dale Brodie, Head of creative at Five Guys

Want to find out more about our previous Five Guys event in Ibiza? Read our blog.

Are you looking to deliver a corporate event with a difference? Get in touch to see how we can help bring your event vision to life.