EVENT INDUSTRY TRENDS FOR 2021 It is clear that international events will not be the same as they were in 2019. As global events of all sorts begin to restart and many in ‘real life’ the event industry has changed and has needed to adapt quickly to create a new normal which includes stricter sanitation guidelines and entry protocols, as well as a number of new trends for 2021! Events are back – they just need a bit more thought and adapting when organising. Current trends include: Closer to Home Previously the attraction for faraway exotic places for incentive events was the incentive. Now event destinations are definitely closer to home with local or national options becoming more popular. Its easier to organise and attendees are more comfortable not travelling huge distances. Although we are getting back to normal, travel restrictions can change at short notice, so the risk is not yet worth taking. Individual Incentives Incentive travel programmes are great for motivating employees and celebrating their achievements. But mixing with big groups still makes some nervous, therefore individual incentive packages are ideal. They can include a plus 1 or limit the numbers to much smaller groups. The incentives can then also be spread across the year and include different locations, matched to the person going . Exclusive Destinations Demand for private and ultra-exclusive destinations which limit the amount of people ensures all safety measures can be implemented like social distancing, extra sanitation, etc. Private luxury islands are always a popular option. They can also limit the number of people who visit at the same time, and can be rented out exclusively by a company for an event. Online Events Even with in person events back on the map, online events will still run parallel and indeed become the norm from now on, especially as everyone has become expert in video calls and other apps for virtual meetings. Outdoor Events If limiting numbers will be difficult, a solution is to hold an outdoor event. This keeps plenty of fresh air circulating. Th ey also have the benefit of accommodating more people and it is easier to offer a comfortable distance between attendees.
Focusing on Sanitations The pandemic has led to far greater awareness of sanitation. Therefore lots of new protocols are now in place everywhere. To ensure your attendees feel comfortable, practice strict and visible sanitation procedures. Before, during, and after your e vent, rigorously cleaning of all areas should be completed. Face masks although may not be mandatory, many will still like to wear them so have spares to hand. Hand sanitising stations in several places will help too, especially at entrances to the venue.
