Based on 127 responses collected in December 2024 and January 2025, the report highlights key factors shaping the meetings and events industry. Including generational workforce trends, budget pressures, and the rise of AI.

Generational shifts, rising costs, and AI adoption drive industry trends

• Generational Workforce Trends: Gen X makes up 50% of the workforce, followed by Baby Boomers (25%) and Millennials (23%), balancing experience and innovation.
• Budget Pressures: Nearly 50% of planners report unchanged budgets for 2025, with only 25% seeing increases (down from 40% last quarter). Despite this, client expectations for high-quality events remain high.
• Rising Costs: Hotel, F&B, airfare, and A/V costs continue to rise, with 42% of planners seeing an 11–20% increase in venue costs.
• AI Growth: AI use in event planning rose from 48% to 57%, with chatbots (87%) being the most widely used tool, followed by grammar checkers (51%) and translation tools (30%).
• DEI and Sustainability: 41% of international planners incorporate DEI into most programs, compared to 23% in the U.S. and Canada. Sustainability integration is also higher internationally (32%) than in the U.S. and Canada (18%).

“While many of the themes overlap, we’ve also found that despite facing budget restraints, planners are still expected to deliver tailored and top-notch, immersive and flexible attendee experiences. Sustainability is no longer optional and there is a demand for wellness-focused event formats, healthier, locally sourced food options, and stress-reducing experiences.” said GDP President and CEO Catherine Chaulet.