Marking ten years of research, the 2025 IACC report highlights how meeting planners are increasingly prioritising engaging experiences and flexible venues over traditional formats. Event organisers are moving away from hotels, with 51% now choosing specialised locations such as stadiums and museums, a sharp rise from 33% in 2023. Meanwhile, expectations for immersive environments and interactive design continue to grow, aligning with a broader shift toward creativity and innovation in event delivery.

Technology, Food, and Sustainability Redefine Planning Priorities

The pressure to adopt new technology has lessened, though artificial intelligence is seen as more critical than in previous years. Hybrid formats are being used less frequently, often due to technical challenges. Venue choice remains driven by location, travel time, and accessibility, with sustainability and food & beverage now playing a larger role in meeting design. Respondents rated food and beverage more highly than ever, especially in Europe, where it is seen as central to guest satisfaction. The report also points to rising expectations for dynamic sustainability reporting, accessible venues, and integrated on-site tech support.