9 Association View see an increase in shorter-notice meeting enquiries in 2024 , allowing meeting planners to directly book one-day meetings online , typically for 20 delegates or less and with standard catering and AV .
While this would present new revenue generating opportunities for venues who are able to adapt with increased flexibility , just over one in 10 ( 12 %) venues currently offer this option – a proportion we forecast to increase over the next 12 months .
Looking to the future Our research throughout the year has presented many reasons for optimism , however as all event professionals know and as this year ’ s rail strikes have demonstrated , we can never guarantee what ’ s around the corner .
Next year will present new considerations once more , with the pending introduction of Martyn ’ s Law just one example of how venues are constantly evolving and adapting to new needs and requirements . With over a third ( 37 %) of organisations not yet prepared for this , this is where we will continue to seek clarity from government and provide guidance on the developing responsibilities of the sector . Utilising our findings throughout the year , we ’ ve reinforced our strong relationship with government , which has included positive meetings with Tourism Minister Sir John Whittingdale , where we ’ ve actively raised the sector ’ s position and our calls for specific support .
These invaluable findings , commended by the Department for Media , Culture and Sport , are only possible with the engagement of the sector . As we continue to develop these insights , we ’ re working hard to bridge the gap between our members and government in 2024 so that we can continue to demonstrate why meetings matter .
For us as the industry ’ s association , not only is it important that we understand the state of the sector , but also the evolving roles and needs of the various stakeholders within it . Recognising this , we ’ ve developed dedicated peer-groups designed to facilitate and encourage much-needed conversations on increasingly pertinent topics , expanding upon our industry insights .
These groups will provide a platform for like-minded professionals to engage and explore innovative ways of approaching opportunities and challenges within the sector , not just for event organisations , but for event professionals . This includes groups devoted towards large venues , academic venues , hotel groups , student membership , LGBTQ +, sustainability , destinations , Instant Book , stadia and more in the pipeline . Spanning every corner of events , we are confident in creating a platform that allows us to address challenges and present opportunities as efficiently as possible , utilising collaboration to ensure that we as a sector are better equipped to adapt and thrive . CN www . conference-news . co . uk