HOW DO WE MOVE FORWARD WITH EVENTS AFTER COVID-19?
The results of Kongres Magazine’s latest survey on COVID-19 aim to defog the uncertain future of event organisation. We have called for the opinions of international meeting planners to find out what we need for a quick and efficient business restart after COVID-19. This situation is an opportunity to reshape the meetings industry and make it more sustainable.
The survey took place from 27 July to 24 August 2020 and was answered by 1.297 respondents from 32 countries:
- 14,10 % Italy
- 8,97 % Austria
- 7,26 % Slovenia
- 6,49 % USA
- 6,41 % Germany
- 6,41 % France
- 5,13 % Netherlands
- 5,13 % United Kingdom
- 3,85 % Belgium
- 2,56 % Spain
MOST IMPORTANT FINDINGS
EVENT CANCELLATIONS
Most meeting planners have postponed or cancelled their events and only a few have implemented online alternatives. 64,2% of them would not cancel live events in favour of online events after the COVID-19 pandemic.
ONLINE/HYBRID ALTERNATIVES
Our research confirmed that the biggest barrier in organising hybrid/online events is ENGAGEMENT of online attendees. We still have a lot to learn in this field and it will take quite some time for the most optimal solution to be developed.
EVENT VENUES
Priorities when it comes to choosing an event venue have turned upside down. Most meeting planners are looking for flexible spaces, quality service and a high level of health and safety, things to be expected.
EVENT SPONSORS
Answers in this segment shows just how uncertain current times are. Clear sponsor policies have not been defined yet. 70,3 % of respondents are concerned about sponsorship revenue, which is quite alarming.
THE BEST OPTION FOR FUTURE EVENTS IS:
44,4 % – Hybrid meetings
39,5 % – Live meetings
12,3 % – Undecided
3,7 % – Other
