State of the Meeting & Events Industry: Positive Returns on Your Dollar

Posted on: October 14th, 2013

The state of our industry is always changing and growing.  2013 has presented challenges with short lead times to plan and execute an event. Many planners are left with less than 60 days to plan the event. With these challenges come opportunity to grasp the trends that will separate a positive return on the client’s dollar so cautiously spent. 

Some of the effective trends as reported by Planners are…

Smart Food

It’s more about what’s on the table than who is in the kitchen. 43% of planners believe focusing on a healthy, nutritious dietary offering is important.  This is coupled with utilizing organic and locally grown foods.

Be Green

Eco-friendly is not new but utilizing properties that are creative in their friendly environmental practices is important.  Properties like Hamilton Park Hotel in NJ participate in the Clean the World program.

Location

Planners are heavily focused on flexible locations that are reasonable with their rates and provide plenty of amenities.

Work It

Healthy eating isn’t the only option for a healthy lifestyle.  Team building exercises that include active or adventurous activities are of great interest.  Also, environmental friendly events like helping rebuild an oyster reef or a community-based project like fixing up a playground are great group activities.

Social

The social network is a must.  Get the word out instantly on LinkedIn, Facebook, Twiiter or Pinterest.

Technology

Streaming media, web-conferencing and on-site video production are the most common uses.  36% of planners noted that one of the aforementioned services is used on a regular basis during their events.