Meetings and Events Industry News

Despite laws that protect food donors and apps that simplify the process, planners keep hitting roadblocks with hotels unwilling or unable to donate food.

Microsoft’s decision to move its flagship developer event out of Seattle marks a significant shift for the company and the city’s events economy. The new location for Build 2026 has yet to be announced.

Claus Raasted wants to disrupt the default settings of the meetings industry — one bold, low-stakes experiment at a time. His legacy goal? Make the world a little less afraid, and a lot more willing to try something new.

The industry is facing its first non-pandemic resilience test. The numbers aren't terrible, but they're a wake-up call for an industry that's gotten too comfortable with its comeback narrative.

No rooming lists, diagrams, or BEOs — and no responses to her calls or emails — left this planner on edge as her hotel went through a change of ownership just weeks before her meeting.  

While media coverage centered on A-list guests and spectacle in Venice, planners focused on how shifting event venues, layered security, and logistical complexity were managed under pressure.

A wave of CEO turnover is creating new demand for in-person gatherings. From leadership summits to town halls, companies are convening under new leadership. 

Incentive experts stress the importance of a Plan B and C as the geopolitical landscape shifts and costs continue to skyrocket.