As businesses start adapting to a new normal, Meetings & Events are also slowly returning but with many factors to consider. In a survey led by Marriott Bonvoy, Marriott International’s travel program, on the expectations of Meetings & Events in the new normal, half of those surveyed are planning to continue with offline events (50%). However, there is a high volume of concerns around government regulations (45%), and safety and hygiene standards of venue (30%), amongst many others.
The survey reached more than 500 respondents including event and meeting planners, administrative support staff and those in management roles across multiple industries in APEC.
“The current ‘new world’ we are experiencing through this pandemic has required us to have a different elevated experience for guests across different sectors and markets,” said Rajeev Menon, President, Asia Pacific (excluding Greater China), Marriott International. “We are seeing leisure travel slowly returning, followed by business and then groups. And with our Commitment to Clean initiative, we are ready to welcome guests back to our hotels around the world, providing them with a safe environment that aligns with expert protocols to travel and connect with confidence.”
To address some of these concerns, Marriott International is introducing new content via a digital platform for Meetings & Events. The platform aims to redefine processes and reimagine spaces guided by cleanliness experts and best practices to help hosts, organizers and attendees plan and execute meetings and connect with confidence. This comes after the company’s announcement of its Commitment to Clean and Global Cleanliness Council.
While offline events might be a popular choice, 36% of the respondents are planning to host more hybrid events – this means combining physical and livestreaming elements to maximise reach, across geographical restrictions.
