The 2017 SITE Index, the authoritative analysis and forecast for the global incentive market released this week by the Society for Incentive Travel Excellence (SITE) Foundation, highlights the world of incentive travel impacted by factors such as the world economy, the potential for terrorist actions, and the political climate. Other factors such as the proliferation of disintermediation and the growing role of event technology are also influencing the industry. 

This year’s study, conducted by J.D. Power, includes responses from 599 buyers and sellers of incentive travel, as well as other industry professionals from 62 countries – 61% from outside the United States. For the first time the survey was offered in three languages (English, Spanish and Mandarin) to provide a more inclusive and global perspective of the incentive travel industry.

Tina Weede, CRP, SITE Foundation vice-president research & education and president, USMotivation, presented the results at a Smart Monday session during IMEX America week in Las Vegas. “The travel industry has always been one easily affected by world events. From uncertain economies to natural calamities, from acts of terrorism to Zika concerns – a lot has happened over the past year that has impacted travel. Despite the ever-changing global landscape, the incentive travel industry is still holding strong.” 

SITE Foundation will host a webinar on November 17th 2016 to review the 2017 SITE Index results and discuss what they mean to the global incentive market. To download the full report and to register for the webinar go to www.siteglobal.com/siteindex.