More associations are swapping virtual platforms for
conference centres – but hybrid is now an established part of the meetings landscape,
a new report has found.
More than half of associations (51%) said they
would be holding their largest meeting in 2023 in person, compared to 41 per
cent in 2022 and 14 per cent in 2021, according to a survey by the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA).
But the virtual option, which became
the norm during the pandemic, was still backed by 37 per cent of organisers, with
hybrid (33%) being the preferred option, virtual-only (3%), and multi-hub hybrid
(1.3%).
And it is clear this shift has changed what
associations need from meeting industry suppliers. Almost all (91%) of associations
have changed or will soon be changing their RFPs, with the majority indicating
that they will be incorporating aspects such as hybrid/digital options,
sustainability as well as legacy initiatives.
Most of the respondents (83%) were making efforts
to work towards more sustainable events and practices. However, we need to be
mindful that associations are in different stages of the sustainability
journey, with some mentioning advanced and established sustainability
strategies, and others acknowledging there is yet a lot to learn.
Around 80 per cent of respondents indicate that
they have a DEI policy in place, or at least are making some efforts to address
DEI.
Partnerships and collaboration is key in supporting
associations in their efforts towards more sustainable and inclusive events. By
sharing best practices and experience with peers and with meeting
suppliers, as well as engaging with initiatives such as the Net Zero Carbon
Events, the
whole meetings industry can unite to tackle these challenges
together.
Some 177 associations took part in the survey, which was supported by the European Society of Association Executives, the African Society of Association Executives and the Asia-Pacific Federation of Association Organizations.
Meetings and events are still the largest segment
of revenue generation for associations (for 51% of respondents this is the main
revenue stream) although there is a growing need for associations to diversify
their revenue stream to become more financially sustainable for the future.
The
survey shares insights into creative approaches for doing so, as well as some
great initiatives associations are undertaking to provide year-round in person
and digital engagement opportunities for their members.
Written By
James Lancaster
AMI editor James
Lancaster is a familiar face in the meetings industry and international
association community. Since joining AMI in 2010, he has gained a reputation
for asking difficult questions and getting lost in convention centres. Proofer, podcaster, and panellist - in his spare time, James likes to walk,
read, listen to music, and drink beer.
