ECEF
Reimagining events with ECEF in DC
Trust , innovation and sustainability are in the vanguard of the evolving events landscape , judging by the key discussions at the recent annual Exhibition and Convention Executives Forum in Washington DC
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2024 edition of the Exhibition and Convention Executives Forum ( ECEF ) in Washington , DC , which highlighted the unwavering trust in in-person events , significantly surpassing other mediums such as webinars and social media influencers . However , the forum also revealed a shifting landscape , with a large percentage of exhibitors in 2024 planning or executing corporate events , more than double in 2023 .
Exhibitors are increasingly seeking simplified contracts , streamlined logistics , and preset meetings with qualified attendees to enhance their participation . As the industry evolves , customised agendas , immersive experiences , and wellness activations are becoming pivotal in engaging attendees , reflecting a broader shift from demographic-focused to objective-based event strategies .
Five key data points emerged from the discussions in DC : 1 . Trust in In-Person Events : In-person events are highly trusted , with 75 % to 80 % of attendees showing confidence in these gatherings . This trust surpasses other sources like webinars , social media influencers , and government leaders . 2 . At-Risk Exhibitors : A significant percentage of exhibitors are reconsidering their participation in trade shows . In 2024 , 35 % of exhibitors are planning or executing corporate events , a rise from 17 % in 2023 . 3 . Exhibitor Packages : Top assistance requests from exhibitors include simplified contracts ( 64 %) and streamlined logistics ( 62 %). They also seek preset meetings with qualified attendees ( 41 %). 4 . Attendee Engagement : Key factors for attracting and retaining attendees include customised agendas , technology , immersive experiences ,
Left : ECEF founder Sam Lippman and wellness activations . Despite efforts , the difference in preference for keynotes varies widely . 5 . Event Objectives : The approach to targeting audiences is shifting from demographic-focused to objectivebased strategies . Event objectives now prioritise learning , networking , having fun , and doing business , which significantly influences attendee satisfaction and Net Promoter Scores ( NPS ).
Unlocking innovation : eMerge Americas ’ impact on Miami Melissa Medina , CEO and co-founder of Miami-based global technology conference and expo eMerge Americas , delivered a keynote at ECEF highlighting how the event has transformed Miami into a global tech hub since 2014 . ECEF heard how eMerge Americas had evolved into more than just an event , it is now an ecosystem fostering innovation and entrepreneurship , significantly impacting Miami ’ s economy by creating over 10,000 jobs and generating nearly $ 3bn .
Roots and vision Medina ’ s vision for eMerge Americas was born out of frustration and passion , identifying a market void and implementing a strategy to fill it . Her roots in Miami and deep connection to the city fuelled this mission , aiming to leverage Miami ’ s position as a bridge to Latin America .
Since its inception , eMerge Americas has drawn an international and diverse community , now attracting 22,000 attendees , 292 sponsors and participants from 59 countries . The event garners global media coverage , reinforcing Miami ’ s status as a global tech hub . eMerge Americas extends beyond its annual event with initiatives like Miami Tech Month and the Tech Basel Summit , providing year-round platforms for founders , investors , and tech enthusiasts to connect and collaborate .
18 Issue 4 2024 www . exhibitionworld . co . uk