Trailblazers
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#TakeTheTimeFor5 as we talk to trailblazers from the UK’s business meetings and events industry about their 2025 sector predictions...
Jack Marczewski, Portfolio Event Director, The Meetings Show, TEAMS Europe, Business Travel Show Europe and TravelTech Show:
Budget and booking limitations lift, but ROI importance grows
“The pivotal elections being held in more than 70 countries around the globe in 2024 meant there was uncertainty and caution among many businesses, particularly around budgets and bookings. As we move into 2025, with a somewhat clearer landscape, I predict that we will see more movement in the market and some positive signs for meetings, incentives, conferences and events. There will be a strong desire for face-to-face meetings and events to take place and companies looking to unite people in a range of ways as limitations from the previous year lift.
“While the appetite for events will be high, so too will be the need to guarantee a strong ROI. Whether it’s money, effort or time being invested in the event, there will be high expectations from all parties and so businesses and individuals will need to be prepared to go the extra mile if they want to succeed into 2025 and beyond.”
Shonali Devereaux, chief executive, the Meetings Industry Association:
Tackling ongoing employee retention challenges
“The business meetings and events sector continues to tackle ongoing challenges in recruitment retention, while also preparing for impending employment law changes that will further shape hiring practices and workforce engagement in 2025.
“To tackle these challenges head-on, the sector will be focusing on broadening entry routes, such as apprenticeships and vocational pathways, while continuing to champion inclusivity and dynamic workforce opportunities. By offering flexible roles for returners, leveraging government funding for apprenticeships, and highlighting the sector's cultural and economic contributions to the next generation, the sector will be better equipped to attract new talent and bring fresh ideas and perspectives into the industry.
“In 2025, we anticipate organisations adapting to evolving workforce expectations, focusing on flexibility, inclusivity and innovation to enhance their appeal in a competitive talent market and secure-long sustainability.”
Georgina Tyson, Director of Leisure and Spa, Foxhills Club & Resort:
The role of wellness in helping people to connect
“At Foxhills, a big part of our vision is giving our members, guests and delegates the chance to exercise, socialise and try something new - three things that will be huge trends in 2025.
“As we move into the new year, I think we’ll see a real emphasis on connection. Wellness has evolved far beyond solo programmes and activities, and it’s now about shared experiences that bring people together, strengthen relationships and improve overall mental and physical health. This is why we have seen such huge demand for fitness classes and things like reformer pilates, group cycling (spin) and padel and pickleball, because they’re fun, fast and social. And here at Foxhills we have worked hard to incorporate this into our Meetings & Events offering – ensuring delegates can focus on ‘mindful mornings and active afternoons’, taking part in group fitness and social activities that are impactful because they add motivation and a sense of accountability.”
Warren Campbell, General Manager, 15Hatfields:
Carbon measurement and offering accurate, transparent data
“In addition to emphasis being placed on energy-efficient infrastructures, renewable energy sources and waste management strategies, this should include offering transparent, accurate and meaningful reporting.
“While it isn’t easy, to gain momentum as well as trust, it’s essential that this includes the measurement and reporting of all three scopes of carbon emissions to provide organisers with the most reliable data possible. Otherwise, it will impact the results and potentially give a false indication on their overall environmental impact and where the priorities for further reductions may lay.”
Rhiannon Thomas, Head of Sales & Marketing, Central Hall Westminster:
Longer, meaningful, and sustainable business events
"We’ve witnessed a growing demand for longer bookings – those taking place over several days rather than half, or one day - from clients recently and I think this trend will ramp up in 2025.
"Reports suggest business travel is back and stronger than ever, but gone are the days when executives would fly to a city for a short meeting. Now, business travellers need to justify their attendance at in-person meetings and as a result, are expecting more from them – both in the time they spend and what they gain from them. Event organisers will therefore be seeking out venues with the ability to adapt spaces for even more meaningful meetings and to give value to delegates. Maybe offering an experiential element to the usual learning and networking proposition.
"With sustainability high on the agenda for organisations, they will also be looking for venues and suppliers who make carbon reduction a priority, whether through renewable energy solutions, offsetting programs or zero waste catering options."
