The UK events industry is making progress on accessibility, but significant challenges remain — and the next stage of research is turning to event planners for critical insights.

Following the groundbreaking Access All Areas: Closing the Accessibility Gap in Events study by The Business of Events and ICC Wales, supported by accessibility consultant Dr Shani Dhanda and the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Events (APPG for Events), the first phase of research revealed a stark reality: 93% of delegates with disabilities still encounter barriers when attending events.

The study, which gathered feedback from more than 1,000 delegates and over 100 venues, exposed a significant disconnect between venue confidence and the actual experience of attendees. Key gaps were identified in areas such as physical access, staff training, sensory considerations, communication and digital accessibility. The research also outlined a clear pathway for venues and organisers to align with the European Accessibility Act, which came into force in June 2025.

Building on this momentum, the second phase now focuses on event planners — the professionals responsible for selecting venues, managing budgets and shaping how events are delivered. Their perspectives will help ensure the research reflects the practical realities of planning and running events, while informing guidance, industry standards and policy development across the sector.

A short survey for planners explores several key themes, including:

• how accessibility influences event decisions and budgets

• where venues and suppliers fall short

• awareness and readiness for the European Accessibility Act

• what ‘good’ accessibility looks like in practice

Craig Bingham (on the right), Managing Director, ICC Wales, said: “Accessibility must be central to every event. By capturing planners’ insights, we continue the conversation and momentum started in the first phase, ensuring inclusive design is embedded across the sector.”

Dr Shani Dhanda said: “The initial research shone a light on the gaps between venue intent and delegate experience. Planners’ voices are essential to evolving this work, embedding inclusive thinking across every stage of event delivery, and driving lasting change.”

The Business of Events and ICC Wales are encouraging organisations and industry partners to share the survey widely with event planners, ensuring their perspectives contribute to a comprehensive and actionable picture of accessibility across the sector.

The findings will be presented at a dedicated session during the ABPCO Festival of Learning in April, before being disseminated more broadly across the global events industry.

Event planners can take part in the survey now, with responses open until 5pm on Friday, 20 March. By contributing, planners will help support the industry’s ongoing transition toward fully inclusive and accessible events for all delegates.
 

Take part in the survey here
 

Published by Meeting Media Company, the publisher of Headquarters Magazine (HQ) – a leading international publication based in Brussels, serving the global MICE industry and association community.

The Thai Exhibition Association (TEA) has unveiled its forward-looking MICE Masterplan 2026–2027, outlining a strategic roadmap designed to elevate Thailand’s exhibition and business events sector on the global stage. The framework will be formally introduced at Thailand MICE X-Change 2026 (TMX 2026), taking place from 29–30 April 2026 at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre (QSNCC).

Held under the theme “Innovation and Sustainability: Driving Thailand’s MICE Industry towards Excellence,” TMX 2026 underscores TEA’s long-term commitment to enhancing the country’s global competitiveness through digital transformation, sustainable business practices and deeper industry collaboration.

Now in its third edition, TMX is expected to attract more than 4,000 delegates, showcase 100 exhibitors and facilitate over 360 pre-scheduled business matching meetings. The programme will also feature 15 high-level conference sessions alongside curated networking opportunities. Beyond strong attendance figures, the event aims to generate concrete commercial outcomes while reinforcing Thailand’s engagement with regional and international MICE stakeholders.

Mr. Loy Joon How (portrayed in the middle of the cover photo), President of the Thai Exhibition Association (TEA) and General Manager of IMPACT Exhibition and Convention Center said, “TMX represents more than an annual gathering of industry professionals. It is a strategic platform that reflects our collective ambition to future-proof Thailand’s MICE industry. By prioritizing digital innovation, sustainability, and global partnerships, we are reinforcing Thailand’s position as one of Asia’s most dynamic and resilient exhibition hubs. Face-to-face platforms remain essential drivers of trust, trade, and long-term business growth.”

Thailand continues to demonstrate strong momentum across the sector. The country hosted 199 B2B and B2C exhibitions in 2024, rising to 214 in 2025. Exhibition space sold surpassed 27 million square metres in 2025, up from 25 million square metres the previous year. This consistent growth highlights Thailand’s resilience, infrastructure capability and its strategic importance within the ASEAN economic corridor.

Dr. Duangdej Yuaikwarmdee, Director of the Exhibitions Department at the Thailand Convention & Exhibition Bureau, affirmed TCEB’s support as a strategic partner of TMX: “Thailand’s exhibitions have evolved into comprehensive business ecosystems that integrate trade, innovation, investment, and knowledge exchange. TMX plays a critical role in strengthening industry capabilities and aligning Thailand’s MICE sector with digital transformation, artificial intelligence adoption, and rapidly changing customer expectations.”

As Thailand advances its MICE Masterplan 2026–2027, TMX 2026 stands out as a flagship platform demonstrating the nation’s readiness to lead through innovation, sustainability and cross-border collaboration.

Published by Meeting Media Company, the publisher of Headquarters Magazine (HQ) – a leading international publication based in Brussels, serving the global MICE industry and association community.

From left to right: Dr. Reinhard Pfeiffer (Co-CEO Messe München), Matthias Meierhofer (Chairman of the bvitg Executive Board), Dagmar Brandenstein (Managing Director of bvitg Service GmbH), Sascha Raddatz (Chief Executive Officer of bvitg), Stefan Rummel (Co-CEO Messe München) © Messe München GmbH

The German Association of Healthcare IT Vendors (bvitg) and Messe München have announced a strategic partnership to jointly organise DMEA, Europe’s leading event for digitalisation in healthcare.

Starting in April 2027, the event will be held at the Munich Exhibition Center for the first time, with expectations of over 20,000 visitors and more than 800 exhibitors annually. The partnership aims to drive the event’s growth and strengthen its international profile.

“With this trade fair location, we are creating nothing less than the epicenter of digital healthcare in Europe. Industry, research, and self-government are pooling their expertise here for the benefit of customers and patients—for innovations that set standards and have a decisive and lasting impact on markets,” said Matthias Meierhofer, CEO of bvitg.

“Munich offers the right ecosystem and ideal conditions for sophisticated technology and science trade fairs. DMEA stands for quality, expertise, and innovation exchange at the highest level. We look forward to further developing the event together with bvitg and the entire industry in Munich,” added Dr. Reinhard Pfeiffer and Stefan Rummel, CEOs of Messe München.

“Number one is going to number one. Starting in 2027, DMEA will be cooperating with a trade fair partner at the absolute top level: economically high-performing, a leader in trade fair technology, and perfectly designed for the growth of Europe’s most important digital health format,” said Dagmar Brandenstein, Managing Director of bvitg Service GmbH, who negotiated the agreement.

“Munich marks the next stage in the success story. DMEA remains the original and is realising its full international potential here—in a location with outstanding infrastructure, global networking, and unique appeal for the digital healthcare industry,” added Sascha Raddatz, Managing Director of bvitg.

DMEA provides a platform for experts from practice, IT, politics, and science to exchange ideas about products, trends, and innovations in healthcare digitisation. The event is considered a central meeting place for medical progress and digital health applications. Forecasts indicate the global market for software, hardware, and services in this sector will grow by over 20% by 2030. In Europe alone, market volume is projected to exceed US$265 billion by then, up from US$79 billion in 2024 – making DMEA a key marketplace for this growth.

Industry welcomes the realignment

Leading industry representatives have welcomed the move to Munich, emphasising the importance of a central hub for the sector:

Bernhard Calmer, Managing Director and CEO at CGM Clinical Europe GmbH, said: “DMEA stands for digital healthcare that is noticeably improving everywhere in Germany—not just in the capital. In a federal system, states and regions bear central responsibility for hospital planning, investment, and implementation. A location like Munich combines this with one of the strongest high-tech and innovation ecosystems in Europe—with clinics, research, medtech, start-ups, and industry in close proximity. This strengthens DMEA as a leading national platform: less debate—more implementation power.”

Jens Naumann, Managing Director of medatixx GmbH & Co KG, added: “With its practice programmes, complementary add-ons, and services, medatixx supports and connects medical practices and medical care centers in their everyday care work. Since 2019, DMEA has been connecting the medical profession with the digital healthcare industry, politics, self-government, and science once a year. With the move to Munich, a stronghold of companies in the digital economy, the topic of digital health is moving even more strongly into the European context and is ideally positioned for a successful future. I am looking forward to DMEA 2027 in the Bavarian capital.”

Munich – Heart of Europe, engine of innovation

As one of Europe’s leading technology and healthcare hubs, Munich offers ideal conditions for DMEA’s continued development. Key factors in the choice of the Bavarian capital include:

• Excellent international accessibility across the DACH region and beyond
• Direct integration into a strong innovation ecosystem of clinics, research institutions, universities, and health tech companies
• Modern, top-quality trade fair and convention infrastructure, enabling flexible formats and growth
• Expansive space for innovation, a growing start-up scene, expertise in co-creation, and opportunities to develop new event formats
   

Powered by Meeting Media Company, publisher of Headquarters Magazine (HQ) – a leading international publication based in Brussels, serving the global MICE industry and association community.

VOK DAMS worldwide has compiled the “Event Marketing Trends 2026.” Ten developments show why events in 2026 continue to grow in strategic relevance and how companies are using live experiences more deliberately for communication, culture, and impact.

Events are increasingly being used as a strategic lever in brand communication: they generate attention, strengthen relationships, and support measurable impact. At the same time, expectations are rising and people want experiences that last, and companies want results that endure. Artificial intelligence is also changing how event strategies are developed and evaluated, making them more precise, more efficient, and more measurable.
 

10 Eventmarketing Trends 2026
 

1. Events Become a Strategic Lever in Marketing Communication
   
   Digital spaces are getting tighter: content is virtually infinite, yet visibility is becoming ever more selective. Algorithms filter reach and increasingly determine what gets through at all. Live experiences bypass these barriers. They create presence, attention, and impac, without a feed, filters, or scrolling. People listen, experience things together, and respond immediately. That’s why live will continue to gain strategic importance in 2026.
   
   In 2026, companies will use events to explain transformation, provide orientation, actively involve people, and strengthen culture. Events are no longer isolated communication tools, but strategic brand touchpoints with a clear purpose and measurable impact.
    
2. Once-in-a-Lifetime Experiences Become the Currency of Attention
   
   Attention will be a scarce resource in 2026. That is why brands need to invest in bold, immersive, and surprising experiences. Attention is no longer driven by visibility alone, but by meaning. By moments that deserve time and focus.
   
   In a world where almost everything is always available, uniqueness becomes the strongest driver. A single event is no longer enough when it’s just a moment in time. It takes a signature experience people still talk about months later because it sparks emotion, strengthens identity, and creates conversation value. And that conversation value is the new currency: it extends impact far beyond the event itself: into teams, communities, and networks.
    
3. AI Becomes a Co-Strategist with Digital Doppelgängers
   
   AI is changing how we plan events, especially where impact begins: in strategy and concept development. Instead of explaining decisions with data after the event, in 2026 we increasingly test, refine, and optimize beforehand.
   
   Digital Doppelgängers enable a new form of co-creation: audiences become sparring partners. Ideas, dramaturgies, content, and touchpoints can be simulated in advance, not based on assumptions, but on realistic, simulated reactions. This makes it clear which messages resonate, where friction occurs, which formats activate, and what moves people.
   
   The shift is clear: Pre-data instead of post-event analysis. AI makes concepts more precise and events more impactful by enabling better decisions earlier. Leaving more room for what live experiences are all about: bold ideas, strong moments, and genuine connection.
   
   
    
4. Events Create Communities
   
   Today, events do more than create experiences. They create belonging. Whether employees, customers, or stakeholders: communities emerge where people experience, shape, and engage together.
   
   That is why events in 2026 are increasingly designed as long-term relationship engines – not as single entities, but as starting points for connection. Series formats, leadership programs, and employee engagement play a key role.
   
   They enable recurring encounters, real dialogue, and participation. That builds lasting bonds and communities that endure.   
    
5. Micro Events: Small, Precise, Personal
   
   The trend is toward curated formats for smaller audiences. Micro events create closeness, relevance, and deep dialogue, without the overwhelm of large stages. High touch instead of high volume.
   
   In 2026, companies will complement flagship events with many small, standardized, and highly efficient touchpoints that can be flexibly rolled out across regions, audiences, or markets. Their strength lies in scale with substance: small groups enable deeper exchange, stronger participation, and more meaningful dialogue.
   
   Micro events are ideal for focused product launches, leadership dialogues, change programs, internal communication, and client engagement.
    
6. Employee Events Become a Strategic Tool
   
   Internal communication embraces live. Kick-offs, culture days, and leadership formats gain further importance in 2026 because they achieve what emails, slides, and intranet posts often cannot: orientation, identification, and energy.
   
   Events become the place where culture happens. When leadership is visible and employees are actively involved, trust, clarity, and momentum emerge. This is what makes internal events a strong strategic tool: for alignment, engagement, and sustainable culture.
   
   
    
7. Anniversaries Reimagined  
   
   What’s new isn’t the anniversary, it’s how it’s being used as an event. In 2026, anniversaries are staged both as a look back and as a strategic launchpad for the next chapter.
   
   That turns an anniversary into a brand moment that makes identity tangible: through a clear message, a point of view, and meaningful encounters.
   
   When done right, anniversaries have impact far beyond a single evening. They connect employees, customers, and stakeholders, strengthen identity and trust, and activate relationships – internally and externally. Not as a celebration for its own sake, but as a live format with clear purpose and impact.
    
8. Mindfulness as an Event Design Principle
   
   Strategy meetings or leadership programs face new demands in 2026. Audiences operate under constant pressure and tight schedules. What’s needed are spaces that enable presence, foster conversation, inspire ideas, and clear the mind for what truly matters.
   
   Leaders, teams in transformation, employees, customers, and partners expect more than information – they want to feel considered. This increases the demand for formats that provide orientation instead of overload.
   
   Mindfulness becomes an event design principle: less sensory overload, more presence. Not quieter – but more conscious. Events create frameworks where people truly arrive with clear flow, meaningful conversation zones, moments of calm, and natural pauses. Digital tools support intentionally without disrupting the moment. The result: content resonates longer, dialogue deepens, and brands are experienced more consciously.
    
9. Think Global – Act Local
   
   Think global, feel local. In 2026, international brands will increasingly rely on global event frameworks that combine cultural diversity, local insight, and global brand messaging. The goal: a consistent brand story across borders – not translated, but truly relevant locally. Global master concepts are intelligently adapted with the right cultural codes, tone, and formats for each market.
   
   Internationality becomes a quality standard, not an added layer of complexity: global clarity, local relevance – and events that make the brand tangible everywhere.
   
   
    
10. Sustainability Becomes a Question of Credibility
    
    In 2026, sustainability in event and live marketing will no longer an add-on – it will be a core expectation. Clients, partners, employees, and increasingly regulation demand responsibly planned and delivered events. Brands that take sustainability seriously must make it tangible in live experiences – across concept, production, supply chain, and reporting.
    
    Requirements are increasing. Companies must comply with regulations such as the German Supply Chain Due Diligence Act (LkSG) and CSRD. At the same time, the revised ISO 20121:2024 strengthens the link between events and the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Sustainability becomes not only a question of values, but of proof.
    
    With the SDG Event Compass, VOK DAMS has responded to this shift. The tool helps event teams integrate sustainability measures strategically and align them systematically with the UN SDGs – providing a clear, structured foundation for future-oriented, measurable sustainability in events. 

What’s driving this development

• Shifting expectations: Attendees don’t just want to be informed. They’re looking for experiences, meaningful encounters, interactivity, and added value.
• Technological capabilities: AI, data analytics, VR/AR, and digital tools enable a level of personalization and experience that was unthinkable in the past.
• Societal change: Sustainability, social responsibility, and values-driven thinking are becoming increasingly important for companies and their audiences.
• The content mindset: An event can be more than a moment. With well-designed content, it can create lasting brand and community impact.
   

Published by Meeting Media Company, the publisher of Headquarters Magazine (HQ) – a leading international publication based in Brussels, serving the global MICE industry and association community.

The eagerly anticipated IBTM Trends Report 2025, unveiled during the flagship IBTM World event in Barcelona, presents a portrait of an industry that continues to expand and demonstrate resilience, even amid global challenges.

Drawing on insights from over 140 data sources, the report analyses the principal forces influencing the worldwide meetings and events sector. It identifies strong industry optimism, supported by factors such as the value of events as a counterweight to digital saturation, the increasing use of analytics and ROI measurement, and a heightened emphasis on strategic thinking and creative development.

The report also considers how the sector can secure long-term stability, spotlighting global demographic evolution as a significant opportunity. Currently, more than 1.1 billion of the planet’s eight billion inhabitants are aged 60 or above, a number projected to climb to 1.4 billion by 2030 and 2.1 billion by 2050. It suggests that the industry can capitalise on this transition and that an inclusive strategy for engaging this demographic of delegates may set a standard for the years ahead.

Additionally, the report points to the industry’s strengthening performance as a magnet for growing financial interest. With increased startup activity, investment flows, and mergers and acquisitions, capital markets are beginning to regard events as a secure and attractive prospect. Reflecting this shift, the report debuts a new section, Ignite, dedicated to exploring financial dynamics within the meetings and events landscape—an innovation that will be mirrored at IBTM Ignite on the show floor.

The annual report is authored by Alistair Turner, Managing Director of Eight PR & Marketing. Alistair noted: “This is one of the most dynamic and positive reports of the last five years, as we explore why events and experience continue to grow as an industry. However, it is also our responsibility to safeguard that growth, and the report delivers some fascinating conclusions on where the future of the industry could lie, and how event organisers can take advantage of this.”

Beyond its examination of growth pathways and demographic change, the report will also investigate wider behavioural trends unfolding worldwide. These themes include culture and brands, AI, transformationalism and personalisation, imagination poverty, sustainability, and DE&I.

Lucy Dyer, Conference Content Manager, IBTM World, said: “Our annual trends report is an invaluable barometer for measuring the state of the industry, as well as an in-depth analysis of the challenges and opportunities ahead. An essential resource for our community, this year’s report paints an encouraging picture of industry resilience, while also offering several compelling strategies for future-proofing. We trust the insights within the report will empower readers to drive progress and strengthen the industry locally, regionally, and globally.”

Powered by Meeting Media Company, publisher of Headquarters Magazine (HQ) – a leading international publication based in Brussels, serving the global MICE industry and association community.

In today’s rapidly evolving event landscape, creating meaningful delegate experiences has never been more crucial or more complex; associations strive to deliver value through the technology that now enables a level of customisation previously unimaginable.

Author: Johanna Tellechea Arellano, Project Events and Account Leader – Conferences, at Business Travel Consulting
 

As technology and artificial intelligence revolutionise our daily lives and professional gatherings, attendees simultaneously crave cutting-edge digital experiences and deeply personalised human connections. This tension defines the post-pandemic event industry, where success depends on mastering both the virtual and the personal.

Constant notifications, data entry requirements, and screen time can overwhelm delegates, particularly during multi-day events and paradoxically reduce meaningful in-person connections that remain the cornerstone of successful professional gatherings.

The contradiction is striking: as our world becomes increasingly digitised, the hunger for authentic, personalised experiences grows stronger. Event participants want immersive technology that wows them while still feeling seen and understood as individuals. They desire frictionless digital experiences without sacrifi cing meaningful human interaction.

When the pandemic forced events into virtual spaces, many predicted the permanent decline of in-person gatherings. Today’s hybrid events are not merely physical gatherings with digital extensions. They represent distinct attendance channels that serve different audience segments with tailored experiences. Virtual components now attract participants who might never attend in person due to geographic, financial, or personal constraints. This digital dimension significantly increases overall participation, creating new revenue streams and expanding global reach. When the pandemic forced events into virtual spaces, many predicted the permanent decline of in-person gatherings.

Personalisation Through Technology

The most innovative event planners leverage technology not as an impersonal force but as a personalisation tool. AI-powered recommendation engines suggest relevant sessions based on attendee interests. Digital badges track participation patterns to deliver customised content. Mobile apps facilitate meaningful connections between like-minded participants.

Over-personalisation, especially in the context of the meetings industry, can certainly present significant risks when balancing innovation with privacy and well-being. While personalised experiences can create a more engaging and memorable event, an excessive or poorly managed approach can lead to various challenges.

Collecting too much personal data to customise experiences can violate attendees’ privacy. The more personalised the experience, the more sensitive data needs to be handled. Over-personalisation may involve gathering too much information from attendees in an attempt to refine the experience. This could lead to discomfort for participants who feel their every move is being tracked or analysed.

Personalising experiences based on certain data points may unintentionally exclude or alienate attendees who do not fit into these narrow profiles. For instance, an event tailored only to tech-savvy individuals might leave out others who could benefit from the event but feel excluded.

Over-reliance on algorithms for personalisation may result in unintended biases. If the data being used to personalise experiences is skewed, it could reinforce stereotypes or exclude certain groups. To ensure that algorithms are regularly reviewed and updated to avoid reinforcing biases, designing personalised experiences with a diversity of perspectives in mind and making space for the unexpected.

Mental Health and Well-being: The Next Frontier

Perhaps the most signifi cant shift in post-pandemic event planning is the growing emphasis on attendee well-being. Mental health considerations have moved from afterthought to central design principle. Progressive organisers now incorporate:

• Designated quiet spaces;
• Shorter, more focused sessions with some breaks;
• Mindfulness and meditation offerings integrated throughout the programme;
• Healthier catering options.

Finding Balance

As we navigate this new landscape, the most successful associations will be those that find balance, leveraging technology without becoming enslaved to it. The future of exceptional delegate experiences lies not in choosing between high-tech and high-touch approaches, but in thoughtfully integrating both. By placing human needs at the centre of event design while leveraging the best technological tools available.

Powered by Meeting Media Company, publisher of Headquarters Magazine (HQ) – a leading international publication based in Brussels, serving the global MICE industry and association community.

Putting on successful events requires an incredible amount of work from several different parties, but what happens if something goes wrong? Mark Blair, Executive Director at InEvexco, and Andrew Harrison, Director at the Event Supplier and Services Association (ESSA), explore the ever-growing importance of insurance in event planning.

Over 400,000 events take place at venues across the UK every year, and each and every one of them involves an incredible amount of planning and communication between multiple parties. For organisers, suppliers, subcontractors, exhibitors and even the venues themselves, successfully putting on an event requires collaboration between lots of different people.

Most of the time, these events go off without a problem, helping to inform, entertain and delight the 85 million people that attend UK events each year. But to protect those involved in the event’s creation should anything go wrong, insurance needs to be put in place – yet, doing so successfully can sometimes be a challenge despite its evergrowing importance.
 

The Importance Of Insurance In The Events Industry

“The world of events is very different from other industries when it comes to insurance,” explains Mark Blair (right), Executive Director at InEvexco, a specialist insurance broker for the events industry and long-standing insurance partner of ESSA.

“With multiple parties involved, each organisation requires distinct yet interconnected insurance policies to ensure comprehensive protection in case of any issues. Understanding what these needs are can be a complex matter and is something we are seeing more of in our post- COVID world with contracts between parties becoming stricter, making it essential that everyone has adequate coverage.”

Some of the risks involved in event planning may, at times, be obvious, yet some risks are also often overlooked. The unique nature of hosting a large two-day event, for example, means organisers have one major revenue-generating period a year, which makes cancellations or disruptions particularly costly.

For suppliers and contractors, accidents, injuries or damages during setup, execution or breakdown of an event can result in claims or lawsuits requiring coverage, as well as if disruptions such as property damage or inability to access the premises mean work cannot be carried out.

Other areas also do not discriminate between parties. Any party managing sensitive data for the event runs the risk of cyber-attack, which could have severe consequences such as data breaches, loss of access to systems, fraudulent payments and more.
 

Unique Challenges With Unique Solutions

There are always unique challenges to address, but as our industry so often shows in the face of adversity, we do have unique solutions.

“One thing we are seeing more of in the events industry is insurance provided on an all-risk basis, particularly when it comes to cancellation and abandonment cover,” explains Mark. “While an organiser may only wish to take out limited Public Liability insurance during the few days they are working on the event, this typically would not cover them if anything unforeseen occurred outside of those dates, while cancellation and abandonment insurance on an all-risk basis would. It is about giving people broader protection and covering any pre-event risks that are often overlooked.”

Yet, as the event industry continues to evolve and change, it is also about focusing on those areas that can often be overlooked.

“One of the main types of insurance I feel is often missed in events is cyber insurance,” explains Mark.

“With changes to GDPR in recent years, protecting the data you hold is more important than ever, which in turn makes the risk of a cyberattack even more prevalent, especially with the additional risks of data breaches and loss of access to systems. Yet despite all this, the risk of cyberattacks can often be ignored with an ‘it will not happen to me’ mindset.”
 

Striking The Perfect Balance

Better education in event insurance comes with a better understanding of the main risks in the industry and, in turn, what policies are available to help mitigate these risks.

While all-risk basis insurance would typically cover all the unforeseen, those wanting more specific insurance require more specialised options. Common options include public liability insurance to protect against injury and property damage, as well as professional indemnity insurance to help cover financial losses due to errors or negligence.

New policies have also been introduced in recent years, such as pandemic insurance, which helps protect a business from losses brought about by a future pandemic.

“COVID-19 highlighted the huge impact a pandemic can have on a business, and new pandemic policies allow events to be protected from severe financial losses should another pandemic or similar event occur,” explains Mark. “It is also focusing on flipping the mindset from ‘What is the absolute minimum cover I need?’ to ‘What cover is going to protect me, the business and the shareholders?’“

It is also vital those parties involved feel empowered to choose the right insurance for them alongside the support of a specialist insurance broker who can help navigate any nuances of event risks and help ensure the right level of coverage.

Better education also leads to better responsibility among all parties involved, leading to more informed decisions and the reassurance that everyone has their required insurance policy in place.

The world of insurance can be a complicated one. Yet, with better education and support, we can ensure our events continue to be world-class while also ensuring all parties involved are protected.
 

The Business of Events has today published its 2025 International Planner Sentiment Report, revealing a marked divergence in event planner priorities across global markets. 

Sponsored by Tourism Ireland and released to coincide with the opening of The Meetings Show, the findings reveal shifting regional attitudes – particularly among North American planners – shaped by changing economic, cultural, and political landscapes.

As the importance of factors like Sustainability & Social Impact and Equity & Diversity declines in North America, planners in the UK and Europe are moving in the opposite direction, with Cost and Value for Money rising to the top of the agenda amid continued economic pressures.

Drawing on contributions from corporate, association, agency, and incentive and reward planners across the UK, Europe, and North America, the report is a vital resource for destinations and venues seeking to remain competitive in a changing landscape.

Key findings include a two-point decline in the importance placed on Sustainability & Social Impact among North American respondents compared to 2024. Equity & Diversity and Cultural Identity also saw a modest decline in this region, down by one point each. In contrast, planners in the UK and Europe rated Equity & Diversity one point higher than last year, creating a four-point transatlantic gap in sentiment – possibly reflecting shifting cultural expectations.

Meanwhile, Cost and Value for Money has increased in importance among European planners, now rated at 10 – up one point from the previous year. This mirrors trends in the UK and likely reflects inflationary pressures and economic uncertainty affecting budgets across the supply chain.

Other decision-making factors, such as Accessibility, Destination and City Brand, Food and Hospitality, and Safety and Security, remained largely stable year-on-year across all regions.

Mike Fletcher, Director of News and Content at The Business of Events, said: "While most sentiment indicators have remained stable, the 2025 data highlights emerging regional divergences – especially in North America – which may indicate broader cultural and economic shifts. This data is invaluable in helping UK destinations and venues adapt their strategies to maintain global competitiveness."

The International Planner Sentiment Report forms part of The Business of Events’ wider research programme, which includes the Quarterly Event Economy Tracker, and Global Destination Report. All reports are available to download free of charge, ensuring the widest possible access across the UK’s business events sector to support strategy, planning, and policymaking.

Research findings are also shared directly with VisitBritain, Department for Culture, Media & Sport (DCMS), the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Events, association partners, and other key stakeholders.

The International Planner Sentiment Report was previewed at an exclusive event held at Corrigan’s in London on 24 June, attended by Tourism Ireland partners, members of the media, trade associations, VisitBritain, and representatives from DCMS.
 

The full 2025 International Planner Sentiment Report is now available to download here.

Following its successful debut at the 2025 ABPCO Festival of Learning, The Eastside Rooms’ wellness room - originally introduced as a temporary feature for the event - will become a permanent fixture at the venue.

This decision underscores The Eastside Rooms’ growing commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), and is a direct result of insights gained from recent industry-wide conversations around neurodiversity.

The inspiration for the wellness room emerged from a session on neurodiversity at the ICCA UK & Ireland Chapter Conference, later explored further in the venue’s own “Eventful Encounters” podcast. The panel, featuring voices from across the sector, emphasised how essential it is to design event environments that are genuinely inclusive of neurodivergent delegates. For The Eastside Rooms, this sparked immediate action.

The wellness room is designed to be a calm, tech-free space that offers:

• No phones or laptops allowed – creating a true mental break
• Bean bags and relaxed seating
• Cards and colouring books to engage the mind gently
• Noise-cancelling headphones for sensory relief
• Soft background music for a tranquil atmosphere

“The response from delegates at the ABPCO Festival was overwhelmingly positive,” said Leanne Bladen, Director of Sales and Marketing at The Eastside Rooms. “It reinforced what we already knew: creating spaces that promote wellbeing isn’t just a nice-to-have, it’s essential.”

The wellness room is just one example of The Eastside Rooms’ holistic approach to DEI. As a Disability Confident Employer, the venue already champions inclusive recruitment practices, family-friendly policies, and partnerships with organisations such as Halesowen College to provide opportunities for students with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). Over 200 individuals from underrepresented backgrounds have entered the hospitality sector through its partnerships with initiatives like Springboard.

Building on the themes raised in the neurodiversity podcast, the venue has also created a suite of video guides to help delegates navigate the journey to and from the venue. These travel route videos offer visual and auditory cues to ease anxiety and improve accessibility, especially for neurodivergent guests.

“Inclusivity runs deeper than ramps and accessible toilets,” added Leanne. “It’s about the entire delegate journey. From how people arrive to how they unwind, we want every single guest to feel respected, understood, and supported.”

With more than 76,000 delegates welcomed in 2024 and a 37.5% increase in association event turnover, The Eastside Rooms is proving that purpose-driven innovation drives real results. As the venue prepares to host events for organisations such as the Women’s Engineering Society and the British Society for Intraoperative Neurophysiology, it continues to lead by example in championing DEI across the events industry.
 

Published by Meeting Media Group, the publisher of Headquarters Magazine (HQ) – a leading international publication based in Brussels, serving the global MICE industry and association community.

88% of associations and not-for-profit organisations believe that geopolitical instability will impact their operations - with 85% stating it already has.

Amid an increasingly volatile global landscape, these are among the headline findings of new research released today by The Hague & Partners Convention Bureau in collaboration with the European Society of Association Executives (ESAE).

Conducted amongst 99 association and not-for-profit leaders from across the globe, the research shines a light on how associations are adapting - or struggling to adapt - to mounting global pressures including political instability, the rise of populism, and tightening regulatory and operational environments.

Adding weight to the results is the seniority of the respondents – 54% describe themselves as Executive / Board / C-level, whilst a further 18% cite their role as association management.

Unprepared and under pressure

While 14% of organisations described themselves as not prepared for the ongoing geopolitical impact, a further 72% said they are only somewhat prepared. Just 13% feel they are well prepared. This suggests widespread concern around resilience and agility in the face of fast-moving change.

“Associations are increasingly navigating a complex geopolitical environment, with instability no longer an external factor but an embedded reality,” said Bas Schot, Head of The Hague & Partners Convention Bureau. “Our research reveals not just concern, but a clear call to action - associations must double down on governance, mission alignment and strategic communication if they are to weather what lies ahead.”
 

Populism: influence and implications

The rise of populist parties and movements also ranks high on the list of concerns: 77% of respondents see it impacting their organisations. Worryingly, 30% ranked their concern as 4 or 5 out of 5 regarding the influence populism could have on the composition and decisions of their boards.

In response to these risks:

• 81% of respondents are reinforcing their focus on core mission and values.
• 63% are prioritising stronger governance policies.
• 61% are working toward more diverse board representation to balance perspectives.
   

Learning from history - but gaps remain

While 83% believe that lessons from past crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic and the global financial crisis are helping them respond today, 42% say critical knowledge gaps remain.

Commenting on the findings, Ioannis Pallas, Managing Director of ESAE, said: "This research underlines how geopolitical developments are no longer tangential to association leadership - they are central. Associations must evolve structurally and strategically, not only to stay relevant but to continue being forces of positive change in society. The insights provide a valuable roadmap for that journey."

Events and mobility: shifting strategies

Though just 27% of respondents said political instability has directly disrupted their ability to organise events in Europe, 28% have already moved their events to more politically stable regions - an early sign of what could become a significant trend in event location planning.

Next steps and upcoming insights

This research marks the first release of findings from a larger study. A detailed white paper will follow, exploring the research and anecdotal responses in greater depth alongside the interconnected challenges of geopolitics, communications, technology, and association resilience.

Following successful past collaborations, The Hague and Partners Convention Bureau is also in the process of rolling the research out via Ottawa Tourism and its partners, with the intention of creating a globally rounded set of results to be released at IMEX America.
 

About the research

The survey received 103 responses, of which 99 were included in the final analysis. Respondents identified their organisations as follows:

• Association: 68%
• Not-for-profit: 11%
• Professional Society: 9%
• Public Sector: 6%
• Association-focused PCO: 4%
• Federation: 2%
   

The geographical breakdown of the 99 included responses are:

• Europe: 78%
• North America: 16%
• Asia: 3%
• Africa: 2%
• Australasia: 1%
• South America: 0%
   

Published by Meeting Media Group, the publisher of Headquarters Magazine (HQ) – a leading international publication based in Brussels, serving the global MICE industry and association community.

Paula Rowntree, a key speaker at The Meetings Show and Head of Events at the Australian Psychological Society, is a passionate advocate for inclusive event design, championing the idea that true accessibility goes beyond physical accommodations. Here, she shares her insights on why inclusivity is more than just a checkbox, how small changes can have a big impact, and why event planners must rethink traditional spaces to create truly welcoming experiences for all.

"True inclusivity in event design goes beyond simply meeting accessibility requirements. It’s about creating spaces where every individual—regardless of their cognitive, sensory, or physical needs—feels comfortable, valued, and able to engage fully. While accessibility is often seen as a compliance issue, inclusivity is a mindset. It requires event organisers to think beyond physical access and consider how different people experience an event space.

One of the simplest yet most impactful ways to make an event truly inclusive is clear and proactive communication. Neurodivergent attendees, for example, benefit enormously from knowing what to expect in advance. The Meetings Show has teamed with EventWell to provide a quiet and relaxing space for event goers- allowing them to prepare for any sensory elements that may affect their experience, reducing anxiety and creating a more welcoming environment. Even without major budgets for large-scale redesigns, transparency around key details—such as noise levels, lighting conditions, and the availability of quiet spaces—can make all the difference. If an event includes background music, live entertainment, or flashing visuals, letting attendees know in advance empowers them to plan accordingly. A quiet space is only useful if people know where to find it and feel comfortable using it for its intended purpose.

Technology also plays a key role in fostering inclusivity. Thoughtfully designed digital tools can enhance the event experience, but only if they are accessible. Ensuring event websites, apps, and materials are compatible with screen readers, captions, and alternative text makes them more user-friendly for everyone. Live captions are invaluable for those with auditory processing challenges, while customisable settings within event apps allow attendees to tailor their experience to suit their cognitive needs. Even something as simple as checking colour contrast on screens and printed materials ensures that information is clear and readable for all.

Small adjustments in event design can also have a significant impact. Seating options, for example, play a crucial role in how inclusive a space feels. A simple yet effective change is to introduce tall tables at the back of rooms, allowing people to stand comfortably without feeling out of place. This benefits attendees with back pain, those who struggle with prolonged sitting, or anyone who prefers a little more personal space. If budget allows, integrating a mix of lounges, bean bags, textured rugs, and café-style seating into event spaces creates a more welcoming atmosphere and caters to different sensory needs. Quiet spaces aren’t just beneficial for neurodivergent attendees—they can offer a moment of respite for anyone overwhelmed by the intensity of a busy event. Converting an underutilised green room or meeting space into a designated tranquillity area can make a real difference to overall attendee comfort.

When event spaces are designed with inclusivity in mind, engagement and interaction improve across the board. Creating environments that remove barriers to participation—whether through flexible seating, clear communication, or sensory-friendly networking areas—results in a more dynamic, engaged audience. Attendees are more likely to contribute to discussions, absorb information effectively, and make meaningful connections when they feel supported in the space around them. Many of these principles don’t just benefit neurodivergent individuals; they also enhance the experience for introverts, non-native language speakers, and those with different learning styles.

The responsibility for inclusivity doesn’t just fall on event organisers—it needs to be embedded in the entire event culture. It’s not about ticking boxes; it’s about ensuring that every person who walks through the door feels like they belong. This starts with education. Teams should be equipped with the knowledge and awareness to recognise diverse needs and respond accordingly. For practical guidance, I recommend the APS/APA Neurodiverse Inclusive Guidelines for the Events Industry- a dynamic, evidence-based framework offering a clear and practical guide for staff, providing tools to educate their teams on common challenges and effective solutions. Regularly reviewed and updated, it ensures the approach stays current, relevant, and impactful. Creating an inclusive culture means fostering an environment where flexibility is encouraged, real attendee feedback is valued, and every detail is considered with a broad range of experiences in mind.

No single event can perfectly cater to everyone, but small, intentional changes make a world of difference. The most successful events are those that don’t just accommodate people—they make every individual feel like they were considered from the start. Designing for inclusivity isn’t just about accessibility. It’s about respect, comfort, and ensuring that every attendee has the opportunity to experience the event in a way that works for them. When we design with neurodiversity in mind, we create better events for everyone."

As a leading world-class Professional Conference Organiser – PCO, with six decades of expertise in scientific, medical and professional associations, Kenes Group fully understands its role in enabling global knowledge exchange.

In the context of scientific advancement towards the improvement of patient outcomes, the relevance of DEI goes beyond representation, as it elevates the conversation within a field by providing a wider spectrum of research and testimonies from diverse sources, regions of the world, and socio-economic circumstances.

Author: Estefanía Zarate Angarita, Kenes Group Media & Communications Manager

With this in mind, Kenes Group’s Sustainability Policy includes a section dedicated to DEI, aimed at improving both employees’ and partners’ practices that create long-lasting impact. Read them below:

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion in Kenes Sustainability Policy

It is one of Kenes core values to support DEI policies across all our activities, whether internal or external, concerning all people regardless of their ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, disability, religion, age, or other identities. We believe and embrace DEI in creating a workplace and organising events where everyone feels welcome, respected and valued.

Our strategy and initiatives show what DEI means to us, why it matters to us and how we approach it. We commit to continuous learning and improvement to create a more inclusive environment in all our offices, business strategies and operations, clients, associations, and events managed.

Internal objectives:

• Include DEI in the internal office policies and procedures and ensure that they are fair and equitable;
   
• Develop and train all employees on the organisation’s harassment prevention, policies and procedures;
   
• Follow and implement equal employment opportunities in all Kenes offices and subsidiaries;
   
• Highlight the diversity and inclusion goals for hiring and leadership, promoting diversity of thought, backgrounds, experiences and skills;
   
• Have a code of conduct in place to address bias and discrimination;
   
• Maintain an environment that is free from discrimination, and where employees and candidates are treated fairly, with respect, and valued, where everyone has the same opportunities to succeed;
   
• Promote open communication and provide opportunities for employees to connect;
   
• Create mentorship programmes connecting newly hired and more experienced employees to provide guidance and support.

External objectives:

• Include DEI as part of event strategies and guidelines;
   
• Maintain an environment that is free from discrimination, and where customers and attendees are treated fairly and with respect;
   
• Make sure that our event planning teams are diverse and that everyone feels comfortable sharing their ideas and perspectives. Proceed to create a space and atmosphere where everyone’s voices are heard;
   
• Do the utmost to increase and invite more diverse speakers, performers and attendees and create a more inclusive environment;
   
• Set specific DEI goals for our attendees and speakers at each event. Track our progress over time so that we can identify areas where we need to improve;
   
• Make sure that marketing materials reflect the diversity of attendees and use inclusive language throughout;
   
• Make our events accessible, and this includes a fully accessible venue and exhibition with ramps, providing accommodations for people with disabilities, as well as offering childcare and different food options;
   
• Partner with organisations and companies that are committed to DEI to promote our events and to attract attendees

While Kenes Group’s commitment to DEI is well-known by the global team, the continuous challenge is to actively engage the numerous event partners and association leaders in the pursuit of these objectives, which ultimately represent enhanced collaboration and an overall greater experience for all.

Global DMC Partners (GDP), the largest global network of independent destination management companies (DMCs) and specialised event service providers, has released the results of its Q4 2024 Meetings & Events Pulse Survey, a report on what is currently driving decisions in the global meetings and events industry.

With 127 responses collected throughout December 2024 and January 2025, the report covers topics including generational workforce trends, tightening budgets and increasing costs, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) integration, sustainability practices and rapid growth of AI adoption. The survey polled meeting and event professionals, the majority of whom are based in the United States (58%), United Kingdom (18%) and Europe - Non-UK (11%), with 7% in Canada.

Respondents were divided between agency/third-party planners (49%), corporate/direct planners (29%), and association and independent meeting planners (17%), as well as suppliers. Respondents were made of 50% Generation X, 25% Baby Boomers and 23% Millennials.

Key insights included: 

• Generational Workforce Trends - Gen X dominates the MICE workforce (50%), with Millennials (23%) closely following Baby Boomers (25%). This mix brings a balance of experience and fresh perspectives to the industry;
   
• Global Budgets Continue to Tighten - Nearly 50% of planners reported budgets staying the same from 2024 to 2025, with only 25% seeing increases, as compared to nearly 40% reporting increases in the last survey. Despite even tighter budgets, end-client expectations for quality and deliverables continue to rise.
   
• Rising Costs - Event planners are still facing notable increases in hotels/venues, F&B, airfare, and A/V costs, adding further pressure to budgets.
   
• International Focus on DEI and Sustainability - International planners lead in both sustainability and DEI. While 32% integrate sustainability into most programs vs. 18% in the US/Canada, the DEI gap is even wider:  41% of international planners include it in most programs, compared to just 23% in the US/Canada. Cost remains a key barrier.
   
• Rapid Growth of AI Adoption - AI use in event planning grew from 48% to 57%, with chatbots (87%) leading the way, followed by grammar checkers (51%) and translation tools (30%). 

Budgets & Costs

Budgets are tightening heading into 2025. As compared to last quarter when nearly 40% reported growth in budgets, more respondents (nearly 50%) are reporting no changes or budget cuts, and fewer are reporting any increase (25%). Regionally, 32% of US/Canada respondents report budget increases compared to 15% internationally. Decreasing budgets were reported by 21% of respondents from both regions. Rising costs in hotels, F&B, and A/V continue to strain budgets, forcing planners to prioritise accommodations while cutting back elsewhere. End-client expectations for quality and deliverables keep rising even though costs continue to strain budgets, making it that much more challenging for meeting planners.

“In addition to our quarterly survey, we have been gathering feedback on industry trends from our highly-valued Customer Advisory Board,” said Global DMC Partners President and CEO Catherine Chaulet. “While many of the themes overlap, we’ve also found that despite facing budget restraints, planners are still expected to deliver tailored and top-notch, immersive and flexible attendee experiences. Sustainability is no longer optional and there is a demand for wellness-focused event formats, healthier, locally sourced food options, and stress-reducing experiences. Tightening budgets is causing more vendor scrutiny, and planners are insisting on no surprise costs or hidden fees.”

Rising Costs

Event planners are still facing notable cost increases across key categories, with the largest percentage of planners reporting spikes in hotels/venues costs (42% of planners are seeing an 11-20% rise) and food & beverage costs (35% of planners report the same rise). Airfare and A/V costs are also still on the rise (nearly 20% of planners report hikes of 21-30% in airfare and A/V costs), adding further pressure to budgets. These escalating expenses highlight the need for strategic adjustments in budget planning and resource allocation to maintain event quality while controlling costs.

Cost Management Strategies

Some event planners are managing rising costs by trying a variety of strategies. A few of the more popular tactics include reducing attendee numbers and exploring second or third-tier markets (more than half of respondents reported sometimes using these options). Other tactics include building in more leisure time, reusing decor and materials across multiple events, and reducing the number of days in a programme. Early contracting also remains crucial to saving. Overall, respondents emphasised the need for proactive, early planning and cost efficiency while maintaining event quality.

Top Challenges

Higher costs continue to be the top challenge for both U.S./Canadian and International respondents, showing a shared focus on managing expenses. While timely approval from decision-makers ranks second across both groups, budget management is a higher priority internationally, whereas finding availability takes precedence in the U.S./Canada. Despite slight differences in ranking, the key challenges remain consistent across regions. 

Top Challenges - Hotels & Venues

Consistent with an earlier 2024 report, over 80% of planners report that higher accommodation rates remain a major challenge most or all of the time. Rising A/V costs are a concern for 65% of planners most or all the time, while 75% struggle with higher-than-expected F&B costs most or all of the time. Respondents highlight stricter contracts, higher prepayment demands, and reduced negotiation flexibility, making it harder to stay within budget. As compared to the last survey, 12% more planners report there is less room for negotiation now. 

Destination Selection

The most important criteria for recommending and selecting destinations is price (accommodation, F&B, taxes), closely followed by the costs of attendee travel and flight availability. The least important criteria include exchange rate, language and destination sustainability.

Planning & Lead Times

Incentive programmes tend to have longer lead times, with 33% of respondents planning 13-24 months in advance, whereas meetings and conferences are often planned on shorter timelines, with 36% being organised just 4-6 months ahead. Many respondents highlighted the challenge of shorter lead times, with factors such as internal schedules and slow hotel response times impacting planning timelines.

Although planners reach out to DMCs on similar timelines as destinations, hotels, and venues, lead times for DMCs tend to be slightly shorter. Planners are generally contacting DMCs 7-9 months ahead, with some even reaching out just 2-3 months in advance. Timelines vary based on when programme details are finalised, with some reaching out as early as 2+ years and others as soon as briefs are received.

DEI, Sustainability & Wellness 

DEI, sustainability, and wellness continue to be priorities in event planning for many. Below are the reported frequencies of incorporating these elements into programmes, as shared by respondents. 33% of respondents report incorporating DEI & Accessibility into most of their programmes, while 25% report rarely incorporating these elements. In terms of sustainability efforts, 50% of respondents say they incorporate sustainability into at least half of their programmes. As it relates to wellness, 55% incorporate components in less than half of their programmes.

International respondents report higher adoption of DEI and accessibility, with 41% incorporating these elements in most programmes and 21% in every programme. In the US and Canada, only eight% include DEI in every programme. 23% include DEI in most programmes - just over half of the 41% reported by international respondents. The most frequently incorporated measures include accessible venues, initiatives that cultivate collective belonging and networking, and a diverse speaker line-up.

International respondents also show greater integration of sustainability, with 55% including it in most or every programme. In the US and Canada, only 19% incorporate sustainability in most programmes, and just 6% do so in every programme. Additionally, 27% of US and Canadian respondents rarely include sustainability, compared to only 9% internationally, reflecting a notable gap. The most frequently incorporated sustainability elements include reducing plastic usage/waste, locally sourced food options and selecting programme components within walking distance.

Wellness Implementation

While wellness isn’t universally integrated into every programme, certain elements are gaining traction. Healthier F&B options lead the way (72% choose these options most of the time or always), followed by relaxing activities. Family-friendly activities, however, remain a lower priority, with 70% rarely or never incorporating them. The most frequently incorporated wellness elements are healthier F&B options, physically active experiences, and relaxing activities.

AI Adoption

AI adoption in event planning continues to grow, rising from 48% last quarter to 57% this quarter. Chatbots remain the most widely used tool, with 87% of respondents utilising them. Other popular tools include grammar checkers (used by 51% of respondents), translation tools (used by 30%), content creation (used by 25%), and note-taking (used by 18%), with a few citing tools like Canva and Zoom AI among other tools.

Microsoft Teams and Zoom dominate technology usage among event planners, with 84% and 78& of respondents using them, respectively. Other widely used tools include Cvent Registration/Attendee Management (60%), Cvent Supplier Network for venue sourcing (54%), and G-Suite (46%). Salesforce is utilised by 25%, while 20% reported using other tools, such as Monday.com, Whova, and Smartsheet.

For the full results of GDP’s Meetings & Events Pulse Survey, please check the report here

© University of Technology Sydney

International Convention Centre Sydney (ICC Sydney) has selected Bachelor of Management (Events) graduate Emily Howe to join its ranks as part of a new Event Management Graduate Programme delivered in partnership with academic powerhouse University of Technology Sydney (UTS).

The two-year paid graduate programme kicked off last month and will see Emily Howe gain exposure to multiple disciplines – from business development to event planning and event delivery, plus insights into customer service, finance, risk and marketing.

ICC Sydney Chief Executive Officer, Adam Mather-Brown said, “At ICC Sydney, we take our commitment to help attract, nurture and develop the future leaders of our industry seriously. We offer long term, flexible and rewarding careers at ICC Sydney and invest in developing holistic event professionals.

“This initiative delivered in partnership with the University of Technology Sydney adds to our portfolio of programmes that ensure career development and future proofs our industry. Our team is proud to provide an avenue for more graduates to get the on-the-job experience that is so critical in event management,” Mather-Brown said.

UTS Business School’s Director, Bachelor of Management, Dr Meg Hibbins said, “We’re delighted to once again join forces with the team of ICC Sydney to create an unparalleled opportunity for our event management graduates to experience working in Australia’s premier venue.

“Up and coming event managers are looking to put their knowledge into practice and accelerate their careers with a real-world industry experience. This partnership with ICC Sydney provides a clear pathway to gain access into a highly competitive industry that our best and brightest students can aspire to as they complete their studies with UTS,” Hibbins said.

Speaking of her placement into the programme, Emily Howe said: “I couldn’t be more excited to put into practice the learnings that I’ve gained through my degree from the University of Technology Sydney by joining ICC Sydney as a new graduate.

“Starting off in a coordinator position in the Business Development department, I can’t wait to experience the mentoring and interaction with clients that will boost my future career prospects,” Howe said.

ICC Sydney collaborates with the University of Technology Sydney across a spectrum of initiatives — including talent attraction, nurturing future entrepreneurs as host of the UTS Startups Summit, connecting event organisers to Sydney’s tech and innovation eco-system including academic partner UTS through the venue’s Legacy Programme, as a test location for UTS Robotics Institute’s “Pepper” robot project, and engaging the academic institution to evaluate ICC Sydney’s ‘Feeding Your Performance’ culinary philosophy.

In January 2024, the Spanish Centre for Sociological Research published a survey highlighting a worrying perception among Spaniards regarding gender equality. According to the survey, 44.1% of people who identified as male believe that efforts to promote gender equality have gone too far, resulting in discrimination against them. Surprisingly, 32.5% of people who identified as female echoed the same feeling, suggesting a perceived excess of rights. These statistics reveal a wider backlash against efforts to promote gender equality and achieve equity.

What would a similar poll on other rights reveal? Do people think that LGBTQIA2+ rights have also gone too far? What about the rights of other vulnerable communities? Would it explain the constant attacks on our rights and the never-ending hate speech?

Author: Jesús Guerrero Chacón, HQ Deputy Editor 

During Pride month, a councillor from a far-right party in Spain claimed: “They are not oppressed. They are not victims. And they have more privileges than anyone else.” In response, a left-wing councillor argued, “We are not asking for privileges; we are asking for the same rights as any other citizen.” This striking disagreement raises the question: Do they truly see the LGBTQIA2+ community as privileged? Especially when the Spanish Ministry of the Interior reported a 21.3% increase in hate crimes in 2023 only, including crimes based on racism, xenophobia, sexual orientation, gender identity and ideology.

The latest European Union elections gave the LGBTQIA2+ community some breathing space, with a smaller than expected rise in far-right parties. However, the US elections in November still have many on edge, given the potential global implications. It is more important than ever for the community and allies to unite and vote for those who support equality and respect for rights. In the meetings industry, it is vital to be proactive in implementing strategies, campaigns and contingency plans to counter anti-DEI measures by elected governments. This proactive approach will help create a welcoming and safe environment for all employees and attendees, regardless of the political climate in challenging destinations.

The global landscape for LGBTQIA2+ rights is full of challenges, particularly in countries where far-right and traditional conservative parties hold significant power. Organisations such as ILGA Europe highlight these issues through tools such as the Rainbow Map, which ranks European countries according to their legislative developments on LGBTQIA2+ issues. The map shows a striking contrast between countries that are advancing LGBTQIA2+ rights and those that are regressing under the influence of the far-right. Let’s take Spain as an example: a champion of progress in this area is now in danger of going backwards, with regional and local governments trying to erase the visibility and rights of LGBTQIA2+ people.

These issues hit close to home. Despite its progressive reputation, Spain is facing a resurgence of conservative forces that are undermining LGBTQIA2+ rights. While they boast that our capital is one of the best LGBTQIA2+ destinations in the world and that its Pride celebrations are the largest in the country, attracting thousands of participants, the reality is very different. Its regional laws have resulted in significant cuts to trans and LGBTQIA2+ rights, particularly in areas such as health, education and documentation. The Spanish Constitutional Court has already suspended these regressive reforms. There has also been a worrying trend to trivialise Pride through pinkwashing tactics. For example, instead of supporting local associations or prominently displaying the rainbow flag, officials have promoted the event with a poster full of clichés and stereotypes, reducing Pride to a mere mass celebration devoid of its true meaning and significance. Some other local authorities, the rainbow flag has been controversially compared to diseases such as cancer, Alzheimer’s and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. An embarrassing comparison, which the Spanish Ministry of Equality has asked to be withdrawn since the World Health Organisation declared in 1990 that homosexuality is no longer considered a mental illness, and declarations like that reinforce stigmatisation.
 

Even with these challenges, there are reasons for hope. Thailand’s recent legalisation of same-sex marriage is a significant milestone, making it the first country in Southeast Asia to recognise such unions. This positions Thailand as a benchmark for LGBTQIA2+ rights in Asia, alongside Taiwan and Nepal, which have similar laws. In addition, the Thailand Convention & Exhibition Bureau has launched a new Pink Plus Economy campaign to promote LGBTQ tourism, including sectors such as health, wellness and wealth. This initiative represents a significant step forward in DEI efforts within the meetings industry.

In Europe, several countries have taken strong stances against conversion therapy, showcasing a commitment to protecting LGBTQIA2+ individuals from harmful practices. Estonia, for instance, recently became the first Baltic state to legalise same-sex marriage, marking a historic moment for the region.

While such progress is encouraging, it highlights the need for a broader commitment to DEI values that protect not only LGBTQIA2+ rights, but the rights and dignity of all vulnerable communities, as governments withdraw rights and reduce the visibility of organisations’ advocacy, the meetings industry cannot ignore that. In an increasingly global and interconnected world, failing to address discriminatory laws, measures, and hate speech of any kind and against any community enacted by certain governments can have significant repercussions on events hosted in those destinations. Such environments may become less safe for locals and tourists, and less attractive to conference participants, who might choose to avoid attending events in these areas altogether. Recent events in the UK in late July and early August highlight the growing tension on the streets, as thousands of anti-racist protesters formed human shields around asylum centres and law firms in response to far-right-led rallies and the violence incited by immigration laws and hate speech.

The message is clear: we must stand strong, protect our communities and unite against the spread of hate. Convention bureaux and centres should not only create safe spaces during the events they host but also work to ensure that the destination and surrounding areas, including venues and hotels, are welcoming to all delegates before, during and after the events. This includes ensuring that delegates have a positive experience when they venture out onto the streets, as safety should not end at the doorstep of the venues. Collaborating with local and international organisations, providing educational resources to the local community and using economic impact to advocate for policy change are key steps in achieving this goal.

Associations and other organisations can significantly impact local communities by forming partnerships, fundraising, and promoting DEI at their events and operations. By implementing inclusive hiring practices, supporting diverseowned businesses, and offering scholarships to underrepresented groups, industry players can foster an inclusive environment that respects and celebrates all kinds of people, whoever they are.

This is a wake-up call for the meetings industry – a sector with significant capacity to promote human rights. Now is not the time to passively support DEI values; we must actively promote diversity, equality and inclusion of all kinds, as we cannot allow hate and discrimination to win. Associations, convention bureaux, venues and meeting planners must actively promote diverse and inclusive events, even in the face of political opposition. This includes ensuring diverse representation among speakers and panellists, creating safe spaces and training staff on DEI values. These efforts should not leave behind the fights for gender equality, LGBTQIA2+ rights, racial and ethnic justice, disability rights, economic justice, religious freedom, age equality and the rights of immigrants and refugees.

To learn more about how the meetings industry can advance DEI, particularly for the LGBTQIA2+ community, don’t miss our interview with Cameron Curtis, Executive Director of the LGBT Meetings Professionals Association.

Samuel Sirois is a chef and cookery instructor at the Institut de Tourisme et d’Hôtellerie du Québec in Montreal, Canada. With more than 20 years’ experience in the culinary industry, he is a highly-regarded chef who has represented Canada at culinary competitions such as the Bocuse d’or Canada 2019, Americas 2022, and the World in Lyon 2023, and he has also participated in some unique events around the world such as the Tram Experience 2023 in Brussels or the Columbia Food & Wine Festival 2024.

Although today his profession is more geared towards teaching future chefs, he is still involved in the industry, not only in the kitchen, but also in catering, services, hotels, events and banquets. Samuel works closely with Tourisme Montréal and was the protagonist of a conversation with HQ that crossed the catering and F&B sectors, with the social inclusion of food and the gastronomic diversity presented on the different palates of the delegates.

1) How can you cater for large numbers of guests without losing quality and attention to hospitality? How can we make it a less stressful, simpler and more fun experience?

Quality must be on top of everything. If I am not sure I can deliver quality to my guests, I refuse to do the event – that is the first part of my motto. Then, the difficulties I have faced on my journey as a chef have given me the opportunity to develop greater sensitivity and the chance to understand people better. My clients’ needs are crucial to me, so I need to understand them well and create a climate of mutual sharing. In other words, I need to know their special needs (socio-cultural habits, religious needs, rituals, etc.), allergies, and special diets (ovo-lacto, vegan, pescetarian), or simply their preferences. On the other hand, they have to understand my reality (the number of people working in the kitchen, the service of the event, the equipment, the atmosphere of the event, etc.), and the real capacity of the team to meet their needs and desires. Dining out is a huge responsibility for the host. The first responsibility as a chef/host is to demonstrate trust and clarity with guests/clients. When people feel safe and understood, they are somehow reassured about what comes next. In these cases, it is easier for both sides to participate with less stress.

2) Do you think event planners and organisers still treat food as an afterthought? Do you think more emphasis should be placed on catering at events?

Unfortunately, I would say yes, but as in other areas, change is happening at a very fast pace. There are many different offers and the competition is fierce and sometimes brutal. So, as time goes by, people seem to be paying more attention to the food on offer in the events sector. However, for me, as a player in the food and catering industry, there definitely needs to be more emphasis on catering. Paying attention to food and service is like having insurance in case something goes wrong during the event; at least the guests will remember that the food was good and the service was kind. Let’s remember that smell and taste are very primitive senses. Therefore, it is easier to cater to the client’s other needs once these senses are satisfied. Catering should not be seen as a ‘cherry on top’ in the events sector, but as a fundamental aspect to be considered above everything else.

3) How do you manage to add an identity stamp to the cuisine of a destination without excluding any of your guests? How to include all those with dietary restrictions, allergies or food intolerances around a dish that is essential to your service?

It is simply impossible for me not to be inclusive, especially nowadays. As a Canadian, I am the result of all the cultures, traditions and shares of the people who have settled in my country, and this is reflected in my cuisine. As a chef, I consider myself an open-minded person today, so I can understand the importance of the identity of the cuisine, regardless of the circumstances. Including everyone is particularly good, but it is excessively demanding. Being a good chef means being able to adapt to all kinds of situations. Sometimes I have to face many challenges in the kitchen at the same time in order to respect all dietary restrictions, allergies, intolerances and/or cultural traditions. It is like being a tightrope walker and having to cross a thin wire. Whenever possible, I try to offer something to replace the problematic ingredient or dish if I know of a last-minute restriction. However, if I know that an ingredient or dish could be a problem for the customer, I usually simply choose to create another dish that meets the customer’s needs. Furthermore, these situations are opportunities to acquire solid knowledge of gastronomic creation: sometimes, I have substituted an ingredient and had the happy surprise of discovering new flavour associations. Gastronomy is plastic and malleable; you can always play with it if you are open to the diversity of cultures that inhabit this planet.
 

4) Therefore, do you have any suggestions on how to sufficiently and effectively communicate (before AND during the event), and how to organise and arrange the dish-delivery process smoothly, to improve the overall dining experience?

The more people you have on both sides – kitchen and service – the harder it is to communicate effectively and avoid mistakes. This is especially true when it comes to crucial information, such as a potentially lifethreatening allergy or dietary restrictions that need to be accommodated. Experience has taught me that in these situations it is best to have a single responsible person on each side, both in the kitchen and at the service level. You may say that this puts a strain on the human resources of a restaurant or event, but for me, it is crucial and unthinkable to do otherwise. We are talking about the difference between life and death, or at least between a healthy experience and a very unpleasant one.

In the kitchen, we always have an organised station to compensate for this type of situation, where everything is perfectly clean, safe and free of potential allergens. The person in charge prepares the food, the chef checks it and the head of the service brigade deals only with the target customer who needs this special attention. This organisational chain is the key to ensuring the smooth running and monitoring of the customer experience. This is an extremely expensive way for a restaurant or hotel to operate. For me, it leaves no chance of risking allergies or restrictions. The whole culinary experience depends on the host’s ability to build a relationship of trust with guests. As a chef, I find it very difficult to deal with the stress that the production of a dish can create when we talk about taking allergies into account. Simply because I feel responsible for providing not only the best possible culinary experience, but also an exceptional customer experience.

5) What kind of interactive gastronomic experiences have you carried out at events? In your experience, how can these activities raise the profile of a destination?

One of the activities that is not only interesting but also very captivating is the use of liquid nitrogen to create spontaneous ice cream. For example, during a promotional event, I made a special ice cream using camelina seed oil. Without the use of nitrogen, I would have had to use other processes, including food additives, which were not necessary in this case. It was wonderful because people discovered the taste of the oil, but they also got to see and experience another way of using the product. I also ran workshops on local vegetables and the fermentation process, which can highlight these vegetables. This becomes extremely interesting for people because they can taste products they know, but which have new flavours due to fermentation and preservation.

Planners need to make sure that the people attending the workshops are at least as interested as they are. For us, it is an opportunity to talk about our passion and introduce them to a particular world. Obviously, sharing knowledge, passion and techniques can enhance a destination, even encouraging clients to choose one place over another. People like the opportunity to take part in new experiences, and passion breeds passion. Sharing your art and knowledge with others is a moment that should remain in the memory of all participants. The impression of participating in the creation of a menu necessarily leads to free advertising or, at the very least, customer loyalty. Customers are human beings and they like to be considered, understood and respected in their choices. Therefore, if the interaction is well constructed, it will add value to the customer’s destination. The basis of the food industry is sharing, and we must never forget that.

That sounds ridiculous, right? But trust me, it is not too far from the truth these days. It is impossible to ignore how AI is changing the meetings industry, sometimes for the better, but often with problematic consequences. Little did I know, when I enrolled in an AI-focused MBA at the end of 2022, just how big of an impact it would have on my view of the industry and on my role when I rejoined HQ. AI is now a part of every discussion at different in-person and online events, whether in panels, sessions, webinars, or courses, proving its rapid growth in every corner of the meetings industry. I have attended more AI-focused sessions at events than I can count, and I have come across an increasing number of AI-generated articles and marketing content. Let me tell you: some of this content is painfully easy to spot.

 

The UIA Round Table Europe 2024 brought together association leaders, academics and professionals in Florence for a two-day programme addressing the most pressing challenges and opportunities facing the global association landscape. Organised by the Union of International Associations (UIA), the event provided a platform for dialogue on key issues such as trust in international cooperation, sustainability and the role of technology in transforming organisational practices.

  

City Destinations Alliance (CityDNA), the alliance of tourist boards, convention bureaux and destination management organisations in Europe and Destinations International (DI), issued the “Global Accessibility Report”, a collaborative research effort offering a foundational understanding of the global initiatives around accessibility. The report was released at the GDS-Forum & CityDNA Autumn Conference 2024 in Bruges, Belgium.

Global accessibility is essential to ensuring that all individuals, regardless of physical, sensory, cognitive, or unseen disabilities, have equal opportunities to experience the world through travel. With a global disabled population of 16% (1.85 billion people), investing in accessibility is not just a moral imperative but a strategic necessity for destinations and a source of economic impact.

UN Tourism defines accessibility to facilities, products and services as a core component of any responsible and sustainable tourism policy. Through accessible tourism, destinations can empower people with disabilities to travel independently and confidently, providing them with seamless, safe and enriching experiences. Prioritising accessibility also showcases a destination’s commitment to ethical tourism and human rights and reinforces the travel and tourism industry as socially responsible and forward-thinking.

The Global Accessibility Report shares insights from a survey fielded in early 2024 of 92 destinations. 65% of respondents represent destination marketing organisations; 63% were in Europe and 25% in North America. The report has three primary objectives: to understand the challenges and opportunities in creating inclusive environments that benefit everyone; to assess the state of destination accessibility; to identify gaps and highlight innovative practices that foster more welcoming and inclusive spaces; and to inspire and motivate organisations to improve accessibility for residents and visitors of all ages, backgrounds and abilities.

“Accessibility matters not only to visitors but also to local communities, and destination organisations are starting to recognise the significance of providing inclusive facilities, products, and services for everyone,” said Sophia Hyder Hock, DI Chief Inclusion Officer. “It’s not just a key factor for a thriving destination – it’s the ethical choice. We hope this report will help the tourism industry advance this critical effort.”

“Ensuring accessibility is more than just meeting regulations – it’s about creating meaningful, inclusive experiences for all visitors. City Destinations Alliance is proud to collaborate on this important research, providing our members with insights and tools to lead the way in building destinations where everyone feels welcome and empowered to explore,” said Barbara Jamison-Woods, President of City Destinations Alliance.

The Global Accessibility Report serves as a catalyst for destinations to evolve their strategies and shape a more inclusive future for tourism. DI and CityDNA encourage destination organisations, convention and visitors bureaux, and regional and national tourism bureaux to reflect on their current accessibility practices and use the report’s insights to implement changes that support this growth opportunity and greater belonging. Additionally, industry stakeholders, funding agencies, subject matter experts and advocacy groups can leverage these insights to support destinations and contribute to collective progress. The report provides a roadmap for enhancing inclusivity, ultimately creating more equitable tourism experiences for all.

The Global Accessibility Report is available on both the Destinations International's Website and City Destinations Alliance's Website.

With so much choice on the market these days when it comes to accreditation in the events industry, how can you ensure you are picking one that is going to benefit your businesses the most? Andrew Harrison, Director at the Event Supplier & Services Association (ESSA), explores… 

  

World Travel Market reaffirms its commitment to inclusivity by expanding its coverage on diversity, equity, accessibility, inclusion and intersectionality (DEAI).

A dedicated DEAI Summit is taking place from 1:15pm to 5:00pm, with dedicated networking drinks from 5:00-6:00pm, on the opening day of this year’s event (Tuesday, 5 November) in the Purple Theatre.

The theme is “from commitment to action”, and the sessions lined up will concentrate on steps that travel and tourism stakeholders can take today to deliver on its promises to create a truly inclusive industry for travel businesses, their teams and their customers.

Sessions are being organised and moderated by WTM’s newly appointed DEAI adviser, Uwern Jong (he/him). Uwern has won a variety of prestigious press and marketing awards through his advocacy of diversity, inclusion, accessibility and belonging in the travel industry.

“I’m excited to be given this opportunity to shape the DEAI track at one of the most important travel events in the world,” he said.  “But I’m even more excited at being given the go-ahead to change the DEAI focus from mere discussions to action-oriented delivery. In tourism, we spend a lot of time talking around DEAI, which is a positive step for the industry, but it is time that we take affirmative action, showcase and celebrate best practices in the industry and overcome the barriers that still exist.”

Attendees will hear from a range of important speakers. One highlight is a fireside chat with the new Secretary-General of the Greek National Tourism Office (GNTO), Andreas Fiorentinos (he/him), discussing how DEAI is shaping Greece’s destination strategy. 

Also, Alessandra Alonso (she/her), founder of community interest company Women in Travel is chairing a panel discussion based around implementing mentorship and allyship programmes.
 

Intercultural sensitivity in marketing and communications will be discussed by Caroline Moultrie (she/her), EMEA president for MMGY Global.

The Tuesday line-up also features a session on how the travel and hospitality product must evolve to meet the needs of all travellers, no matter their backgrounds, abilities or identities. This theme is developed on the following day (Wednesday 6 November) with a run of sessions taking place in the Orange Theatre.

Topics include how destinations of all sizes can attract visitors by making nature-based and cultural visitor experiences accessible to all, particularly those with physical, cognitive or neuro disabilities. Another session offers insight into indigenous tourism and how the industry can ensure that connecting travellers with the rich heritage, traditions, and wisdom of indigenous communities is done respectfully and equitably.

World Travel Market is also announcing a series of enhancements to its event commitments and facilities, ensuring WTM remains a safe space for all. The WTM Official Conference Programme commits to 50% of speakers partaking from underrepresented groups, while all stages will be fitted with closed captioning, and ramp access. The event will have a ‘Reset Room’ – a quiet space for those with neurodiverse needs.

There will be gender neutral restroom facilities and the option to add pronouns to official event badges. The event will provide multi-faith rooms for prayer, and a host of other facilities to ensure WTM remains a place where everyone is welcome.

Full accessibility information will be available at the information desks in the main boulevard, where staff will be fully trained to support enquiries.

Juliette Losardo (she/her), Exhibition Director, WTM London said: “We all have a role to play in making the world a more equitable and inclusive place. World Travel Market has an opportunity to table topics that need to be talked about and incite progress, and due to its scale, has the power to be heard by many.

The launch of WTM’s Diversity, Equity, Accessibility, Inclusion and Intersectionality Summit demonstrates our commitment to moving the dial from conversation to action, and in 2024, we aren’t just tabling the topic, but we’re investing in change. This year, WTM will provide a wide range of new facilities and services, which we hope will make WTM a safe space for all.”

For more information, please visit WTM London

Today, the Events Industry Council (EIC), the global voice of the business events industry on advocacy, research, professional recognition and standards, released its Futures Landscape Study Survey as part of a year-long project examining the emerging issues that are most likely to shape the business events industry.

All representatives of the global business events sector are invited to take the 10-minute survey which covers diverse topics, including political and geopolitical issues, economic trends, technology, safety and security, and environmental impact. The survey can be found here.

The survey was created in partnership with the Society for Incentive Travel Excellence (SITE) Foundation, which drives the business case for incentive travel and motivational experiences by raising funds that support education and professional development, research and content and grants, scholarships, and other activities, and GainingEdge, a global consulting firm focused on the business events and tourism industry. Additionally, EIC’s more than 55 Association and Corporate Members participated in the development of the survey.

“The survey offers an important opportunity for diverse voices from across the global business events landscape to contribute to work that will shape all our future,” said EIC President and Chief Executive Officer Amy Calvert.

EIC will send the survey to 13,000 Certified Meeting Professionals and is encouraging each of its Association and Corporate Members to deploy the survey to their respective memberships.

The results will influence the content and themes included in the EIC Futures Landscape Report, set to be released globally in late 2024. The Future Landscape Study aligns with EIC’s ongoing commitment to provide research, guidance and standards for the global business events sector.

“The SITE Foundation is proud to support this important initiative for the global business events industry though our annual industry grant,” said SITE CEO Annette Gregg, CMM MBA. “While incentive travel represents 7% of business events worldwide, our community will benefit from this macro look at trends and issues and how they are affecting our industry.”

From the project’s start in early 2024, there has been an emphasis on collaboration across all business events industry sectors.

“EIC is honoured to bring together our tremendous cross-section of members and partners to develop and deploy a report that will serve as a valuable resource for our global workforce,” Calvert said. “While we recognise that our industry will continue to face disruptive forces, we believe this unified effort will equip us to be prepared for the activities that will shape society and business events in the years to come.”

The survey will be open for approximately two weeks. Once closed, EIC leaders, GainingEdge and other stakeholders will analyse the data and present it at the next meeting of the EIC Council Meeting and Think Tank, set for September in San Juan, Puerto Rico. 

Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Trust (MCET), operators of Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC) and the future Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre have taken a significant step towards inclusivity with the launch of their latest Accessibility Action Plan. 

Welcoming visitors from diverse backgrounds, MCET is committed to providing safe spaces to connect and engage.

According to the World Health Organisation, 16% of people worldwide have a severe disability, while almost 20% of Australians have a disability according to the Australian Human Rights Commission. This is a significant number of people who experience barriers to accessing public spaces and events.

MCET adopts the social model view, recognising these barriers are due to social systems and structures, rather than the individual, and the new Accessibility Action Plan seeks to address both physical and non-visible barriers.

The Plan focuses on four key goals; improving employment opportunities for people with disabilities; improving access to goods, services and facilities at MCEC and Nyaal Banyul; collaborating with event organisers to ensure everyone can meaningfully participate and engage in events; and changing discriminatory attitudes, behaviours and practices.

The Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Steve Dimopoulous, said: “We’re proud to work with the Melbourne Convention Exhibition Trust, and I congratulate MCET for their work on the Accessibility Action Plan that will help everyone who visits MCEC and Nyaal Banyul to feel welcome.”

MCEC’s new website launched last year was designed with inclusivity in mind, complying to WCAG 2.0 Level AA Accessibility Guidelines, and providing information about accessible features as well as virtual tours of the venue, allowing visitors to easily explore, navigate and plan their visit. Over the next three years, MCET has committed to further enhancing accessibility at the venue.

Chief Executive Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Trust, Natalie O’Brien AM, said: “As leaders in the events industry, it’s our duty to set the standard for accessibility and inclusion. We’re proud to release our latest Accessibility Action Plan, affirming our commitments to providing welcoming spaces for everyone that visits our venues.”  

Construction of Nyaal Banyul, which is set to open on the Geelong waterfront in 2026 is currently underway. MCET is working closely with the Victorian Government and the consortium led by Plenary Conventions to ensure Universal Design principles are embedded throughout the venue, ensuring accessible gathering spaces for all who visit.

In addition, the Positive Impact Guide was launched last year to provide event organisers with tangible resources to embed corporate social responsibility into their events. The guide includes information on accommodations that can be made to support attendees, as well as partnerships with leading disability service providers, Travellers Aid and Alkira.

MCET’s Accessibility Action Plan was developed with input from people with lived experience along with expertise from accessibility consultants in the tourism industry. This included support from the City of Melbourne Business Capacity Program.

The Accessibility Action Plan has been designed specifically with accessibility and reasonable reading levels in mind, and is available in Plain Language and Easy English formats on their website

• Identify and break self-limiting habits
• Improve negotiation skills
• Advocate for organizational change

• Ensure top-level commitment 
• Offer tailored coaching
• Promote inclusive leadership development

• Establish a cross-industry steering committee 
• Create women’s mentorship program/circles
• Procurement from diverse/women-owned businesses 

The International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) and the Australian Business Events Association (ABEA) have signed a memorandum of understanding today at the Asia Pacific Incentives and Meetings Event (AIME) to strengthen their partnership through a commitment to work together on three key issues facing the Australian business events industry. 

ICCA and ABEA will collectively amplify their core values and positions on three pillars: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI); Legacy and Sustainability; and Talent Development and Retention by the publishing of white papers, access to programmes and information sharing, and developing key opportunities for emerging leaders.

Senthil Gopinath, CEO, ICCA, said that the Australian Business Events Association had led the way with its unification of industry bodies, providing a powerful entry point into the Australian sector. 

“We are delighted to work with the Australian Business Events Association team to take strong, practical, and impactful steps to supporting the success of the Australian industry. 

“ICCA brings world-class programmes, connections and experience that we willingly share with our Australian colleagues. This is an exciting partnership, and we look forward to its ensuing success,”said Gopinath.

Peter King, Chair, ABEA, said that as the leading voice for business events, this was an opportunity to harness well-renowned international expertise and connections to amplify the work of ABEA for its members.

“We know our members are needing to embed DEI principles, sustainability, and develop talent to thrive in the competitive marketplace. Our partnership with ICCA is designed to provide unparalleled opportunities for our members, and the sector, to tackle these challenges head on. 

“No one organisation can do this on their own. By joining forces with ICCA, the global community and knowledge hub for the international association meetings industry, we can pool our resources and focus to achieve the outcomes we all need,” said King. 

The MOU details the work that the two organisations will complete together under the three pillars. 

Pillar One: Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. ICCA and ABEA will support members and associations in their DEI practices by:

• Collecting and sharing case studies. 
• Co-publishing a White Paper focusing on the impacts and opportunities of multiculturalism in the Business Events industry. 
• ABEA members will have access to ICCA’s International Business Events Preceptorship Programme that facilitates educational mentoring opportunities with ICCA global members (Preceptors), allowing ABEA members the opportunity to learn about global best practices.

Pillar Two: Legacy and Sustainable Industry. ICCA and ABEA are united in their goal to advocate to government and stakeholders on the importance of the Business Events industry as a key economic and social impact driver. 

• ICCA to initiate cross-regional collaboration on Business Events legacy impact with ABEA through case studies and other information sharing. 
• ICCA and ABEA will host quarterly meetings to discuss progress, stakeholder engagement and advocacy programmes.

Pillar Three: Talent Development and Retention. This pillar works to address workforce challenges. 

• ICCA and ABEA to collaborate on the Emerging Leaders Challenge at AIME 2024. This programme aims to provide recognition and a voice for emerging leader professionals to share their ideas on refining the Business Events proposition in the area of talent attraction and retention. 
• The winner will be awarded ICCA’s scholarship to pursue the ICCASkills certification as a Certified International Convention Specialist (CICS). 
• ICCA and ABEA will review the Emerging Leaders Challenge in 2024 to address how the programme will be delivered for 2025.

The MOU commenced 19 February 2024 and will be reassessed in December 2026.

UFI, the Global Association of the Exhibition Industry, is inviting talented industry professionals from around the world to apply to the 2024 edition of its “Next Generation Leadership” Grant programme.

The UFI Next Generation Leadership (NGL) Grant fosters emerging leaders within the exhibition industry by recognising individuals who demonstrate clear initiative in driving change and innovation in their respective domains. Now in its 8th year, the programme has been a stepping stone for dozens of rising leaders worldwide and is supported by leading global exhibition organisers Clarion, dmg events, Informa Markets, and RX.

Every year, NGL Grant applicants are asked to focus on a mission that tackles a critical topic facing the exhibition industry. The 2024 mission calls for applicants to assess the strategic and operational potentials that the rise of Artificial Intelligence has for the exhibitions and business events industry.

“There has never been a better time for talent in our industry to step forward and thrive, and the NGL Grant offers a unique opportunity for emerging talent and leaders. I call on all our industry leaders to encourage their best and brightest to apply, and I challenge all the bright talents from around the world: Throw your hat into the ring to become an NGL,” says Kai Hattendorf, UFI Managing Director and CEO.

UFI awards the NGL Grant to up to five future leaders. The winners will be selected by an international jury, chaired by UFI President Geoff Dickinson (CEO, dmg events). Applications are open to anyone who works full-time in the exhibition industry but who has done so for no more than ten years.

The 2024 programme will begin in May and is spread over 7 months, allowing the grant winners to participate while also continuing to fulfil their daily work obligations. Together, the winners will investigate the future of exhibitions through the 2024 mission and will work closely with the UFI team as well as receive support from the NGL alumni community and mentors.

The NGL grant winners will first be invited to the UFI European Conference in Zurich, Switzerland on 11-13 June 2024 to kick off their project together. The programme will then culminate in a special session at the 91st UFI Global Congress on 20-23 November 2024 in Cologne, Germany, where they will present their findings to our industry’s top leaders and decision-makers.

Applications are open until 7 April 2024. Detailed information about the programme, the 2024 mission, and how to apply is available online at UFI website

"We are always happy to bring our PCO Insights to the forefront of the conversation among association executives through HQ. This time, collecting information about what we do at Kenes Group in terms of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) proved to be an exercise of reflection, acknowledgement, rediscovery and sharing among colleagues. While we have DEI initiatives in place at our congresses, we decided to turn to our Kenes Association Management Associate Vice President, Louise Gorringe, and her team to find out where we are successful at being inclusive and where we can work harder all year-long within our partner societies.

As part of this gathering of experiences and perspectives, Louise Gorringe encouraged her team to recognise what we are already doing without feeling daunted by the thought of what needs to be done, to celebrate what we are accomplishing already and to think about inclusion beyond just representation but ask whether all groups have equitable opportunities to participate within the communities."

Article written by Estefanía Zárate Angarita, MARCOM Manager at Kenes Group 

Celebrate where we are!

Before getting into the specifics of initiatives carried out by some of the associations managed by Kenes Groups, I would like to share/highlight three key conclusions drawn by the Kenes Association team:

• As mission-driven organisations, all the societies we work with have core aims and objectives to level the playing field, proactively supporting grassroots, under-served and/or marginalised populations.
   
• Many already ensure representation from geographic regions, sub-specialities, disciplines, and career stages, among others, regarding membership, delegates, conference speakers, board positions and committee members.
   
• Low and Lower-Middle Income Countries and career- stage preferential membership rates, as well as regional-specific webinars and educational activities, and grants, scholarships and awards are set in place across our associations. Louise Gorringe has been working closely with the associative sector for 13 years. In her view “diversity, equity and inclusion start and end with culture and organisational values; it needs to be made a priority from a strategic standpoint by identifying why is it important for the organisation, formalising the commitments, making

Louise Gorringe has been working closely with the associative sector for 13 years. In her view “diversity, equity and inclusion start and end with culture and organisational values; it needs to be made a priority from a strategic standpoint by identifying why is it important for the organisation, formalising the commitments, making it a standing agenda item, having DEI ambassadors and appointing a role within the Board exclusively for these matters”.

She emphasised how critical it is to track, measure and review progress periodically as a form of transparency and accountability: “Sharing ongoing progress means DEI feel like standard work rather than a one-off project.”

Looking ahead

The Kenes Association Management team also identified some of the challenges faced when implementing DEI initiatives. For example: how in some cases, there are only one or a few people on the Board that advocate for inclusivity and it is not as critical for all the leadership; how a significant gap in the field’s research between some regions of the world compared to others makes it difficult to ensure representation in certain areas; how lack of prioritising DEI initiatives in the association’s agenda, as well as a clear rationale for implementation, create much more resistance.

As organisations welcome perspectives from as many places of the social spectrum as possible, DEI increasingly become a core value and part of the DNA of their culture. At Kenes Group, we will continue to drive the conversation, ensuring inclusivity remains front and centre for our partner associations, highlighting the great value we see in opening spaces for everyone, ultimately impacting society as a whole.

Success stories

“Since we are an international society, we observe that we have a balanced representation in terms of gender, location, ethnicity, age and expertise, and also speciality when we choose speakers for all our educational programmes as well as events, too. We implement the same principle when we choose members for our Board and also in all Working Groups of the society.”
Gergana Georgieva, Assistant Association Manager at the International Society of Endocrinology – ISE

“IPVS is rolling out Country Ambassador programmes to grow participation in the society's activities in LLMICs. Membership fees have been reduced drastically to lower the economic barrier to join the society. Webinars and other events are organised with a view to being inclusive in terms of gender, race/ethnicity, and other under-represented communities.”
Chris Amsinger, Campaign and Communications Specialist at the International Papillomavirus Society – IPVS

“When assigning grants, our society aims at having an even amount of male and female acceptances, as well as providing similar opportunities in developing countries.”
Ester Zoroa, Association Manager at the European Society for Clinical Virology – ESCV

“The World Stroke Organization recognises the importance of equity, diversity, and inclusion in its operations and initiatives. Currently, half of the WSO Executive Committee members are women, led by a first-ever woman President Sheila Martins, who is also from a lower-middle income country. Another aspect is engaging people with lived experience of stroke, actively involved in the World Stroke Campaign, the World Stroke Congress and other initiatives. This is one of the ways the WSO ensures that the voices and perspectives of those affected by stroke are heard. Also, through initiatives such as the Future Leaders program, the organisation actively promotes inclusivity and encourages participation from diverse countries and backgrounds.”
Gergana Ralenekova, Assistant Association Manager at the World Stroke Organization – WSO

“The society created a Justice, Equity, Diversity & Inclusion Committee a few years ago, which was responsible for promoting diversity and inclusiveness throughout the organisation, including in its membership, governance, and education programming. Each member was Ambassador within another Working Committee to ensure all activities adhere to the Association's commitment to Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (JEDI). A few years later and all committees are naturally integrating JEDI topics into their activities and reaching out to the JEDI committee for input as needed, so the need to have JEDI committee ambassadors on every committee ceased, although they still have an ambassador on the meeting planning committee. The society has also included several demographic questions (pronouns, ethnicity, various identity questions and language) when people sign up as members or register for the Annual Meeting.”
Evelyn Zuberbuhler, Association Manager at the Collaborative Group of the Americas Inherited Gastrointestinal Cancer – CGA-IGC

The Union of International Associations (UIA) has launched a survey on issues related to international meetings, which is included in its 2023 Report.

During 2023, the UIA carried out its eleventh large-scale survey on issues faced by international organisations and associations when holding meetings. The 2023 survey follows surveys undertaken on behalf of UIA’s Associate Members in 1985, 1993, 2002, 2009, 2013, 2015, 2018, 2020, 2021, 2022.

The questionnaire was written in English, French and Spanish and included simple yes/no and multiple choice questions. 

This UIA Survey focuses on the changed approach of associations, when planning and organising their international events. The survey is designed to help all involved in the process of organising international meetings to get a sense of changes over the years and the challenges of the current environment.

The final section of the report includes additional comments offered by associations on issues related to organising international conferences in pandemic conditions. The COVID-19 pandemic has had a tremendous impact on global travel, the meetings industry, and on the meetings behaviour of international associations shaping this year's questions. 

 UIA will repeat this survey in the future to continue to measure and profile the impact of the pandemic on associations and their meetings activity

This report was sponsored by the Amsterdam Convention Bureau and the Korea Tourism Organisation, which made it possible to invite a larger group of organisations to participate and to make access to this report free for the general public.

The document can be acessed here

The UIA, founded in 1907 in Brussels, is the world's oldest and largest source of information on global civil society. UIA collects, hosts and provides up-to-date, reliable information on global civil society and maintains the most comprehensive source of information on international associations, their activities and concerns, and their meetings activities

48% of organisers increased registration fees in 2023, whilst 51% of associations/not for profits reduced catering spend as they sought to combat economic challenges and price rises.

The Eastside Rooms’ cost of living impact survey reveals that 83% of organisers saw an increase in event costs in the last year. In response, associations/not for profits and corporates have needed to seek different ways to balance the budget, from reduced catering and AV to increases in registrations fees.

The Eastside Rooms, a leading, modern venue in the heart of England, conducted a survey of 125* event professionals from around the world in October 2023 to identify challenges and opportunities faced due to economic challenges.

Overall, 83% of respondents have seen an increase in event costs in the past year, with 45% describing it as significant. When broken down, associations/not for profits are feeling the bite more significantly, with 88% of them seeing an increase versus 73% of corporates.

The two different sides of the industry are attempting to mitigate the financial challenges in a number of different ways.

51% of associations/not for profits are reducing catering costs at their events. This compares to just 25% of the corporates, who see the biggest opportunity to make savings as a reduction in delegate numbers - 28%.

Another stark difference between the two sides of the market are changes in AV/production costs, where 35% of associations/not for profits are reducing spend compared to just 20% of corporates.

One area where associations/not for profits are making a significant additional change is the amount charged for registration, with 59% increasing fees, this compares to 28% of the corporates (48% across all respondents). It is noteworthy that 23% of the associations/not for profits are putting registration fees up by more than 10%.

One area where the two sectors do line up is the frequency of events, with both associations/not for profits (29%) and corporate (25%) reducing how often they are holding meetings and conference.

“That organisers are facing financial challenge is not a surprise.  However, we wanted to understand the specific challenges our clients are facing to ensure we are responding and offering the right solutions,” comments Leanne Bladen, Director of Sales & Marketing at The Eastside Rooms. “It is clear from these results that it is not just the organisers that need to think differently as they deliver events but also the venues, caterers and myriad other suppliers in the event sector. Recognising the need to reduce catering and AV/production budgets for example allows us to consider what is reasonable in our proposals as well as what is needed and what is a nice to have.”

*The Eastside Rooms surveyed 125 event professionals in October 2023.  During the survey they were asked what type of organisation they worked for; these were combined into two groups as follows:

• Association, charity/not for profit, government/public sector and agencies focused on these sectors. Total – 80 respondents – described as associations/not for profits above
• Corporate company 500 or more employees, corporate company less that 500 employees, agencies focused on the corporate sector. Total – 40 respondents - described as corporates above
• The remaining 5 responses were excluded as industry suppliers

69% of the respondents were from the UK, 19% from Europe and the remaining 12% from the rest of the world.

Note – all percentages have been rounded to the nearest whole percent.

For more information about The Eastside Rooms and its commitment to sustainability, please visit https://eastsiderooms.com

Smart City Expo World Congress (SCEWC), the leading international event on cities and smart urban solutions organised by Fira de Barcelona will kick off next Tuesday, November 7, with a record-breaking edition. Under the theme “The New Urban Era” the show and congress will bring together over 1,000 exhibitors and representatives from 800 cities to share their latest projects and solutions aimed at using new technologies such as AI to take a much-need leap towards more sustainable cities and make smart cities even smarter.

The event will become the largest global showcase of innovative urban solutions and projects focusing on strategies to transform current metropolises into more sustainable, efficient, and livable spaces. To achieve this goal, SCEWC will structure its Congress program in eight main tracks: Enabling Technologies, Energy & Environment, Mobility, Governance & Economy, Living & Inclusion, Infrastructure & Buildings, Safety & Security, and Blue Economy.

Amongst the highlights are the keynotes from the co-founder and Chief Strategy Officer of Airbnb, Nathan Blecharczyk, who will discuss how the company faces the future, and FC Barcelona, whose president Joan Laporta will explain how the football club is leading the urban transformation of the surroundings of its stadium. Other keynote speakers include computer scientist and expert in Algorithmic bias Margaret Mitchell who works on shaping AI towards long-term positive goals; AI-specialised lawyer Micaela Mantegna; and former UK Minister for Energy & Clean Growth and sustainable development expert, Claire O’Neill.

The event’s director, Ugo Valenti, said that “The 2023 edition of Smart City Expo will be the biggest ever. The numbers prove that urban innovation ecosystem is in full force again. Amid the so-called Decade of Action, it is time to speed up urban transformation worldwide. We must future-proof our cities so they can effectively become more sustainable, efficient, and livable. Many are already on this path, and the event is a chance to contribute to this goal.”

Innovation showcase

SCEWC will feature a fully booked floorspace, with companies such as AWS, Aramco, Axis, Cisco, Dassault Systemes, Dell, Deloitte, FCC, Honeywell, Microsoft, Nvidia, PWC, Roshn, Siemens, Smart Ports: Piers of the Future, and Veolia. The event will also include pavilions from countries and cities from around the world including Brazil, China, Estonia, France, Germany, India, Israel, Italy, Japan, Korea, Mexico, Nordics, Poland, Portugal, Saudi Arabia, and USA, among others.

To showcase examples of tangible innovations that are reshaping the urban landscape, SCEWC is including a Demo Area with almost 20 examples of solutions being deployed in cities worldwide. Among these products feature ai-equipped electric scooters, modular cabins capable of creating workspaces in public areas, AI smart waste bins that sort out waste by themselves, self-driving shuttles for public transportation, space-efficient foldable cars, and drones ready to delivers goods and pharmaceutical supplies.

Capital city of cities

Barcelona will become once again the Capital of smart cities during SCEWC. The event will bring together representatives from 800 cities from 140 countries. Among the highest ranking representatives are over 50 mayors, including Anne Hidalgo, Mayor of Paris (France); Kostas Bakoyannis, Mayor of Athens (Greece); Pablo Javkin, Mayor of Rosario (Argentina); Kenneth Sim, Mayor of Vancouver (Canada); Mihhail Kölvart, Mayor of Tallin (Estonia); Daithí De Róiste, Mayor of Dublin (Ireland); Sylvester Turner, Mayor of Houston (USA); and Sang-jin Shin, Mayor of Seongam (Republic of South Korea).

As a loudspeaker for city governments, SCEWC will be the stage where a group of European mayors, from cities such as Barcelona, Bilbao, Ghent, Malaga, Milan, Oulu, Paris, Sant Boi, Tallinn and Tirana among others, and with the collaboration of Eurocities network will formally present the Barcelona Declaration “European Cities for European Policymaking and Democracy”. This is a declaration of European city governments to strengthen their participation in EU policymaking and European democracy. By this announcement, European Mayors request to create a Council of Cities at a European level. This Council aims at contributing to establish a formal role for cities within the EU governance architecture.

Along these lines, Barcelona will also be the stage of the World Smart City Awards that acknowledge the most outstanding initiatives and projects in the innovation and urban transformation industry. With a total of 411 entries from 63 countries, the 12th edition of these accolades is the biggest to date. The winners of the 10 categories featured – City, Leadership, Innovation, Enabling Technologies project, Energy & Environment project, Mobility project, Governance & Economy project, Living & Inclusion project Infrastructure & Buildings project, and Safety & Security project – will be announced during a special gala hosted on the evening of Wednesday, November 8th.

Global Innovation Hub

In addition, Tomorrow.Mobility World Congress, Tomorrow.Building, Tomorrow.Blue Economy –focusing on the opportunities of the blue economy–, and PuzzleX will be held alongside SCEWC to strengthen the role of the event and Barcelona as a global hub of smart solutions and provide answers to these the challenges faced by today's cities.

Tomorrow.Mobility will hold its third edition with the aim of accelerating the transition to sustainable urban mobility. Under the slogan "Make your Move Matter" the event, jointly organised by Fira Barcelona and EIT Urban Mobility, will focus on eight fundamental aspects for the transformation of urban mobility: Mobility Data Spaces, Inclusivity, Affordability and Equity, Connected, Cooperative and Automated Mobility, Sustainable Urban Logistics, Multimodality, Urban Air Mobility, Energy Transition, and Active Mobility.

Tomorrow.Building is a new space focused on transforming the construction industry towards a more sustainable and digitalised horizon. Major companies and experts such as Samsung C&T, Siemens, Samoo Architects & Engineers, Bioo, CBRE or Drees & Sommer, will showcase their latest developments. Topics such as digital and sustainable construction, building renovation and decarbonisation, smart buildings and infrastructure, and PropTech will be the themes at the heart of the conference.

PUZZLE X is set to return to Barcelona to explore exponential technologies that promise to reshape the future in unprecedented ways. Topics to be discussed include Exotic Computing, Embodied AI, Quantum Cities, Ultimate Connectivity, Matterverse, Brain interfaces, DNA Data Storage, 6G, and Digital Atoms. The conferences will feature speakers such as Nobel Laureate Roger Penrose; Christian Larsson, CIO of UNIVEF; Robin Saxby, Founding CEO & Chairman of ARM; and Johanna Sepúlveda, Chief Engineer at Airbus, among others.