Industry
update
INSIDE: See why ITA Group's most seasoned experts say India’s Golden Triangle is a trending hotspot.
This season, special opportunities for connection and innovation remind us of the power of meaningful partnerships. Major shows like IMEX Americas in Las Vegas and IBTM World in Barcelona bring industry leaders together, exposing us to ideas that inspire transformational experiences.
Our own ITA Group Summit united colleagues from across the organization, fueling collaboration and empowering us to build on our momentum. It takes an incredible team to create memorable, global events.
The anticipation for 2026 is palpable, with new hotel openings and emerging destinations promising fresh experiences for groups. In this update, we bring insider information on India’s Golden Triangle; highlight standout supplier partners; share the culinary delights of Istria, Croatia; and more.
Monica Fasse
Around the industry
What’s happening
5 takeaways from IMEX Americas—Las Vegas
ITA Group had 20 team members attend IMEX Americas, representing our brand’s commitment to innovation, partnership building and leadership at the largest annual industry show. Here are our takeaways.
> Sustainability in action: Mandalay Bay doesn't differentiate recycling vs. garbage receptacles. After collection, the resort and convention center sorts waste into streams. This approach diverts 60–90% of event waste from the landfill.
> Different destinations to discover: Strengthening CVB partnerships brought new destination ideas beyond traditional, large-property markets. Exploring “mini-citywide” programs for mid-sized groups unlocked unexpected options.
> Wellness exhibits: Energy-boosting activations, like Vitamin B12 injections, drew engagement.
> Immersive sensory experiences: Encore’s “Journey of Discovery” activation took participants on a transformative, AI-enabled ride through the event planner experience. Singapore invited attendees to “have a smell,” incorporating an aromatic component.
> Human-centered, innovation-infused content: Themes of connection, creativity and segmented personalization dominated.
Around the industry
What’s happening (cont.)
Are tariffs affecting event gifting?
Industry headlines note tariffs’ negative impact on event gifting. Angie Fritchen, ITA Group
Senior Product Buyer, offers insights on her team’s response.
> Diverse supplier partnerships. Expanding our supplier network to include more destination-specific gifting options offsets tariffs and international shipping challenges. We’ve seen more import regulations and a higher risk of customs rejecting the shipment. Sourcing locally meets client gifting needs while supporting local economies. Reducing shipping, duties, taxes, etc. also benefits the budget.
> Early procurement and forecasting. Securing orders earlier helps us lock in pricing and hopefully avoid any forecasted increases. We’re transparent with Event Managers and ask them to submit their proposal request six months prior to event operations, if possible. This lead time helps us determine current supplier costs and inventory more accurately and secure pricing.
> Transparency with clients. We don’t want clients to wonder why the same items and experiences they purchase annually now cost more. We clearly convey that while our margins have not increased, the cost of goods has gone up by X percent, and shipping, duties, taxes and tariffs have now increased by Y percent. This transparency earns confidence that our knowledgeable team members do our research and continue to provide the best value.
Alternative gifting solutions. We've implemented a new pick-a-gift solution that looks and feels like a retail experience. Clients customize the platform’s storefront with their logo(s), specific verbiage and branding. This approach saves clients thousands of dollars in shipping fees, import duties, taxes and customs fees, since inventory isn't sent on site. Guests can touch and feel samples, if the client would like. We send gifts to the participant post-program. Reducing excess inventory also allows the client to maximize their budget and offer higher quality gifts. Participants appreciate the convenience, too. They don’t have to worry about finding room in their luggage.
Angie Fritchen
Senior Product Buyer, Event Gifting
9 years at ITA Group
Around the industry
What’s happening (cont.)
Learning what’s on the horizon for Omni
Jill Bartholomay, ITA Group Lead Buyer in Event Purchasing, lent her expertise to Omni Hotels’ inaugural Client Advisory Board meeting at Omni PGA Frisco. She provided meaningful input on key elements of Omni’s first Mexico property: Omni Pontoque Resort at Punta de Mita, opening in Q1 2027.
The advisory board sessions included roundtable discussions on marketing, food and beverage, and competitive positioning, and an in-depth look at the property’s design and scope, presented by Omni’s in-house designer.
A farewell outdoor dinner at the PGA golf course provided an experience highlight. The memorable menu featured an interactive dessert presentation: edible candles that were mango-filled cakes, and Mexican hot chocolate with unique mix-ins. The flagship property is next to the PGA District, which includes retail shops and restaurants in addition to a 70,000 sq. ft. putting green with a jumbotron that can be used for private events.
Jill Bartholomay
Lead Buyer, Event Purchasing
26
years at ITA Group
Defining event industry sustainability solutions
Building a sustainable, more resilient business events industry requires leadership. Event professionals need actionable tools, coaching and resources that move beyond greenwashing and advance goals. Through its groundbreaking Canadian Business Events Sustainability Plan, Destination Canada empowers partners, suppliers, planners and host communities to drive meaningful change.
As a follow-up, Destination Canada hosted its first Sustainability Roundtable in Montréal—a pivotal step to support global efforts to achieve net zero emissions in the business events industry by 2050.
Mackenzie Dierks, ITA Group Senior Global Expansion Manager, was among 11 sustainability experts from business events organizations chosen to co-create practical solutions. She contributed to Destination Canada’s 2025 Sustainability Roundtable Report which covers four strategic initiatives that encourage global collaboration:
> Aligning industries to drive collective impact
> Building a global knowledge hub of best practices
> Demonstrating the ROI of sustainability to shift cost perceptions
> Creating standardized toolkits to measure progress
Mackenzie Dierks
Senior Global Expansion
Manager
5 years at ITA Group
DESTINATION DISCOVERY
India’s Golden Triangle
Cultural greeting at hotel
Junagarh Fort (Bikaner), Rajasthan
Humayun's Tomb, Delhi
India’s Golden Triangle, a circuit that connects New Delhi, Agra and Jaipur, is one of the most captivating emerging destinations for global events and incentive travel. With its kaleidoscope of colors, centuries-old palaces and welcoming people, this region offers a sensory journey to accompany unforgettable hospitality. The Indian tradition of “Atithi Devo Bhava,” meaning “Guest is God,” is a way of life.
Why India’s trending for 2026
> Cultural immersion: From bustling bazaars and sacred temples to Mughal forts and royal palaces, the Golden Triangle is a living museum of India’s rich heritage. Attendees can experience traditional music, dance and cuisine in settings that feel like stepping into a storybook.
> Iconic venues: Host events at UNESCO World Heritage Sites or with the Taj Mahal as your backdrop. The region features some of the world’s most architecturally stunning and historically significant venues.
> World-class hospitality: India is renowned for its gracious service and attention to detail. Luxury hotels in the Golden Triangle rival the best in the world, offering personalized experiences at a fraction of the cost of destinations in Western Europe or the United States.
> Excellent excursions: Whether it’s weaving through the narrow alleyways on a rickshaw-guided tour, enjoying a gala dinner in a palace courtyard or hearing legendary stories from a local in a centuries-old fort, the region offers countless opportunities for curated, high-impact experiences.
Jal Mahal, Jaipur
Chandni Chowk, Delhi
Elephant sanctuary, Jaipur
Best time to host
> Peak season: November–April
> Alternate season: May–June, when warmer shoulder season offers excellent value and fewer crowds, ideal for budget-conscious programs
> Not recommended: Late June–early October, when intense heat and monsoon rains impact travel and outdoor activities
Travel notes
> Delhi Airport (DEL) serves over 150 destinations worldwide. For group travel, it’s a strong hub supporting MICE tourism and corporate group bookings, with specialized services like meet-and-greet, fast-track immigration and group flight coordination.
> e-visas are available for most international travelers.
> Group transfers and guided tours are highly recommended for seamless logistics.
> Modest dress is advised, especially when visiting religious or historic sites. Prepare for a vibrant, multisensory experience that will leave an impression.
"For planners seeking something extraordinary, India truly delivers. From the vibrant energy of Delhi to the timeless beauty of Agra and the regal charm of Jaipur, every moment immerses participants in culture, history and world-class hospitality."
—DAVID ABERS, SENIOR ACCOUNT DIRECTOR, EVENT MANAGEMENT
Market, Pushkar Camel Fair
Taj Mahal, Agra, Uttar Pradesh
Flower Market, Jaipur
Where to stay: Luxury accommodations for large groups
The Oberoi Amarvilas, Agra
Centrally located near historic landmarks and the capital business district, this urban sanctuary offers award-winning dining options and impeccable service. The 254 oversized suites and guestrooms feature state-of-the-art technology. Expansive event spaces include multiple ballrooms and a terrace capable of accommodating more than 300 guests.
Situated just 600 meters (about 1,968.5 ft.) from the Taj Mahal, each of its 102 rooms and suites includes a view of the monument. Enjoy private dining set against its silhouette and explore grounds designed with terraced lawns, reflection pools, fountains and elegant pavilions. Ideal for VIP dinners, product launches or executive retreats.
The Leela Palace, Jaipur
Host high-end events with a royal flair at this resplendent palace, with 200 suites and rooms. Guests stroll through marble corridors, past shimmering mirrorwork and recline in breezy pavilions set against the serene backdrop of the Aravalli Range. Indoor and outdoor venues blend modern luxury and traditional design, perfect for gala events and cultural showcases.
The Leela Palace, New Delhi
David Abers
Sr. Account Director, Event Management
23 years at ITA Group
David’s journey began in hospitality. ITA Group was once a vendor partner hosting exclusive buyouts at his boutique hotel overlooking the harbor in St. Thomas. Now, with over 30 years in the corporate meetings and incentive industry, he’s a global events leader known for visionary design, creative precision and a “never say never” attitude. Whether it’s a high-stakes sales meeting or a luxury incentive trip, David brings theatrical flair, operational discipline and a relentless commitment to excellence.
Where to stay: Opulent spaces for smaller groups
Rambagh Palace, Jaipur
Built in 1835, this 78-room “Jewel of Jaipur” retains its splendor. The former Maharaja's residence impresses with hand-carved marble latticework and lush Mughal Gardens. The spa’s wellness offerings feature ancient Indian healing rituals. Courtyards and historic ballrooms provide a majestic setting for intimate, high-touch events.
Partner recommendation:
Abercrombie & Kent India
This team excels in logistics, premium accommodations and event execution, making them an ideal choice for incentive programs across India. Their professionalism and deep local expertise ensure every program runs smoothly and memorably. Abercrombie & Kent India is a trusted destination partner for ITA Group, consistently delivering high-quality, culturally immersive experiences.
EXTRAORDINARY PROPERTIES
Property highlights
Accommodations: 164 guest rooms
Airport transfer: 75 minutes from Denver (DEN), with regional airport (FNL) serving private aircrafts near downtown
The Elizabeth Hotel, a Marriott Autograph Collection property
Fort Collins, Colorado
This boutique property, named after a pioneering figure in local history, carries her legacy forward by blending innovation and culture. Steps away from neighborhood shops, this pet-friendly, art-filled and music-forward hotel sits at the ideal location in Old Town: close to restaurants, quaint cocktail bars and the Colorado State Campus.
> Attuned to creativity. Every room comes with a turntable. Guests can borrow records and DJ a soundtrack for their stay. Jam session, anyone? Those with musical talent can also check out instruments from the hotel’s lending library of guitars, ukuleles and keyboards.
> Dynamic spaces. Customize the marquee at Magic Rat, where vibrant décor and a built-in stage support private parties that hit a different note. Outside, a spacious patio spills into historic Firehouse Alley, reservable with a proper city permit. Surrounded by Rocky Mountain views, The Terrace offers an open-air setting that feels both expansive and personal.
> Off-site options. Only 20 minutes from Old Town, secure The Covey to host a casual BBQ with lawn games, savory s’mores and stargazing. The barn-style venue features an expansive, mountainside lawn.
Click to see property
The Dorchester, London London, United Kingdom
Perfectly positioned on Park Lane in the heart of Mayfair, The Dorchester captures the energy of London while offering elegant private experiences. The hotel’s newly renovated rooms and suites boast stunning views of Hyde Park, and top floors feature expansive private terraces with unparalleled skyline views. From traditional afternoon tea to a cake and flower boutique, the Two Michelin Key property continues to serve up delight.
> Legendary moments. Indulge in a three-Michelin-star experience at Alain Ducasse at The Dorchester. Hidden within, Table Lumière is an ethereal, semi-private dining space cocooned by 4,500 glowing optical fibers. Seating up to seven guests, this exclusive table features bespoke Hermès china, Puiforcat silverware and Saint-Louis crystal, creating an unforgettable private dining moment for high-level incentive groups.
> Ultimate tea party. Seasonal afternoon tea at The Promenade is seen as an essential London experience. For incentive groups, request customized pastries created to reflect your event theme. It’s an elegant, memorable touch that makes each visit truly unique.
> Town and country experience. Conveniently located just 45 minutes from central London, sister property Coworth Park in Ascot provides a seamless transition from city excitement to countryside tranquility. Balance London glamour with restorative, unhurried splendor on 240 acres of picturesque English parkland.
Property highlights
Accommodations: 171 rooms, 65 suites and two penthouses
Ideal group size: 10–70 rooms
Event capacity: Up to 510 banquet, 1,000 reception Airport transfer: 45 minutes from London Heathrow (LHR) and London City (LCY) airports
SUPPLIER SPOTLIGHT
Standout supplier partners
These supplier partners stand out for providing superior service to our clients.
Sara Travis
Regional Sales
Manager
at PRA Denver
Sara consistently goes above and beyond to support our ag-based account. She takes the time to understand the company, invest in research and learn the industry’s unique nuances.
On our site visit, her proactive mindset stood out. She anticipated needs and suggested thoughtful solutions. Sara showed impressive flexibility when priorities continued to shift and was able to maintain a cheerful disposition and can-do spirit.
—MANDY ESPEY, ACCOUNT RELATIONSHIP DIRECTOR
Nicole Gore
Global Director of Americas at Hyatt
Nicole has been a wonderful partner to ITA Group for many years. We love that she sends a weekly newsletter with a wealth of information on Hyatt properties. The personal touches she shares allow us to build a fun relationship. Nicole knows her properties well and understands the needs of our groups. She always responds quickly; she helped us find another location for a group on a tight timeline. Nicole stays involved throughout the planning process if needed, and ensures each program operates successfully.
— ALLYSSA KOHNERT, BUYER
TRAVEL NOTES
TRAVEL
Insider perspective
Istria, Croatia: Foodies searching for "the new Tuscany" delight in devouring truffles, olive oil and fresh catches along Croatia's countryside and coast. Hosted by local experts INTOURS DMC, ITA Group Buyer Allyssa Kohnert immersed herself in the Istrian Peninsula's gourmet gems through authentic activities, luxury properties and fine dining.
Q:
What makes this Mediterranean destination stand out?
Q: A: A:
Istria is a feast for the eyes. Two colors dominate the region: the green of its inland rolling hills and the blue of the Adriatic Sea. Both offer visitors incredible opportunities to experience a land of history, beauty and culinary heritage. Our introduction to the region began at Meneghetti Wine Hotel & Winery in Bale, a secluded white stone mansion with a Michelin-recommended restaurant. Inspired by the natural surroundings, the chef highlights organic and seasonal ingredients, all produced within a 30-mile radius. We paired dishes with wines produced on the estate, alongside four varieties of olive oil.
What's the best way to see Istria's countryside?
We took a relaxed e-bike tour through peaceful villages and on forest-lined paths. The gentle hills showcased the region's charm without posing a challenge. As part of our trip, we met a local expert and his dog for a guided truffle hunt. Foraging was a perfect opportunity to learn more about the land and appreciate its cultural traditions.
Where did you dine on Istria's coast?
Before lunch, we took a Brijuni Islands boat trip. The 14 beautiful Adriatic islands are a must-visit, with ancient Roman ruins, Byzantine forts, Venetian Buildings, Austro-Hungarian architecture and incredible connectivity to nature. The group had a simple but scrumptious meal in Fažana, a village on the southwestern coast.
Our farewell dinner at Grand Park Hotel Rovinj by Maistra Collection was served with spectacular views. Visitors here can choose between seven different restaurants and bars, including two Michelin-starred restaurants: Cap Aureo and Agli Amici Rovinj.
Q: A:
How does sustainability factor into the Istrian experience?
Here, sustainability isn't just about spending time in unspoiled nature. It's about society, economy and culture, too. Istria is still not well known to tourists, and special programs highlight its treasures and delicacies. These Croatian communities thoughtfully preserve their heritage and share it with visitors to help small towns and villages thrive.
Allyssa Kohnert Buyer, Event Purchasing 2 years at ITA Group
Allyssa’s career journey spans experience in the hospitality industry, event purchasing, planning and sales. She lives in Iowa with her husband, three very active children and two sweet mini-doodle puppies. When she can, Allyssa enjoys reading and planning her next getaway trip.
Trending keynote
Robin Shear
Robin blends contagious energy with practical tools, creating burnout-busting interactive experiences. An ICF-certified “joy coach," she proves life doesn’t have to be perfect for joy to be possible. Robin’s interactive keynotes fuel authentic connection and keep audiences fully engaged. Just ask how spontaneous snowball fights, kazoo battles and dance breaks factor in. Planners love her because she’s easy to partner with and delivers both memorable moments and measurable results.
Accolades
> Robin discovered the joy of speaking when she won a state-wide award and presented her case study to 400 experienced professionals.
> Her book, Messy Joy: How Joy Can Begin Before Your Difficulties End was a #1 New Release on Amazon.
> She's been featured in Time, The Wall Street Journal and Psychology Today.
Keynote topics
> Burnout Buster: The Joy of Being Spontaneous
> The Power of a Good Question: Connection and Joy
Why we recommend
Robin’s refreshing approach leaves attendees with a spark of inspiration that’s easy to integrate into the day-to-day. Her uplifting keynotes are story-rich, full of laughter and customized to the needs of attendees. Planners describe Robin as "the most collaborative speaker I have ever worked with." (McKayla Loss, Buyer, Event Purchasing)
Quick facts
> Preferred format: 60-minute in-person keynote
> Budget range: $12,500–$17,500
Trending content
Resources, tips and tricks
What’s
in your travel bag?
Ostrichpillow Go Neck Pillow
Rotate this memory foam travel pillow to find your ideal resting position. It contours to the spine's natural curve, making red-eye flights outdated.
CALPAK Packing Cubes
Neat, stylish storage frees up luggage space for souvenirs. This 5-piece, water-resistant set comes in various colors and patterns, but we like playful polka dots best.
Bose QuietComfort Headphones
Invest in the best and you’ll never miss a beat. Turn on “aware mode,” and you'll never miss a gate announcement. High-fidelity audio and legendary noise cancellation meet lasting comfort.
Manager, Event
6 years at ITA Group
Kerry recognizes event gifting as more than a perk. It’s a meaningful extension of an already incredible experience. She started collecting pressed pennies on family trips in elementary school and still can’t resist a coin-flattening machine. She scored her latest on an ITA Group trip in Sydney, Australia.
Bio insights showcase: Events Buyer
Kerry Reagan
Gifting
Trending content
Resources, tips and tricks (cont.)
From around the industry
Major convention center expansion and renovation projects
How to manage risk in corporate incentive travel destination selection
Incorporating Gen Z-approved incentive travel strategies Podcast
Association Meetings International podcast on climate change: “We're completely blind to what's coming.”
Read
Unreasonable Hospitality: The Remarkable Power of Giving People More Than They Expect by Will Guidara
Parker sets forth a human-centered approach to gathering that turns mundane events into dazzling opportunities.
On topic
In our work, creating memorable experiences is everything. Unreasonable Hospitality captures that philosophy beautifully. It’s full of inspiring reminders of what true service is about: care, creativity and genuine connection. Will’s stories challenge you to elevate every guest’s experience. He captures the magic that happens when authenticity and creativity meet excellence and ownership. Sign up for Will’s newsletter, Pre-Meal, for more fun stories and practical tips on elevating everyday interactions.
—ELIZABETH BRYANT, SENIOR EVENT PRODUCTION MANAGER
itagroup.com, and head
itagroup.com/insights