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Top 10 Most Read Articles on MeetingsEvents.com in 2024

These are the stories that resonated most with readers in 2024

The last 12 months was a year of accelerating technology, geopolitical shifts, and a growing awareness of our interconnectedness in the face of shared challenges. Within that context, here are the top 10 stories that have had the most resonance with MeetingEvents.com readers in 2024.

1. Associations: The Unsung Heroes Powering America's Economy

In a landmark study, the American Society of Association Executives (ASAE) has unveiled the most comprehensive data to date on the economic contributions of associations across the United States. The findings paint a compelling picture of these organizations as unsung heroes, quietly driving economic growth, fostering innovation, and strengthening communities in every corner of the country. Click here to read.

2. SITE Snapshot Report: Incentive Travel Trends and Challenges

A new report from the Society for Incentive Travel Excellence (SITE), sponsored by Hilton, offers a glimpse into the priorities and concerns of corporate incentive planners in 2024. The report reveals key insights into decision-making, destination selection, and challenges facing the industry. Click here to read.

3. Will Hard Rock's Mirage Takeover Change Las Vegas Events Landscape?

The closing of the Mirage Hotel on the Las Vegas Strip this year marked the end of an era. The Mirage was a pioneer in the development of Las Vegas as a convention destination. The iconic property is undergoing a major transformation under Hard Rock International’s ownership. One of the most significant changes is the construction of a new guitar-shaped hotel tower, which is expected to be completed in 2025. Click here to read.

4. Can Your Attendees Pack a Week’s Wardrobe in a Carry-On?

Several major airlines in the US increased their checked baggage fees earlier in 2024. This left meeting and event attendees left holding the bag when it comes to packing to attend a conference, trade show or incentive. So here are seven packing tips planners can send their attendees to help them to fit everything they’ll need for the event into one carry-on. Come to think of it, planners should follow these tips as well. Click here to read.

5. Hilton Annual Trends Report Predicts 2025 to Be the "Year of the Travel Maximizer"

2024 was the Year of the Great Recharge, where sleep retreats made headlines, mindful drinking rose in popularity and wellness-themed guest rooms took off. Today, as the post-pandemic leisure travel boom normalizes, travelers surveyed in Hilton’s (in its second appearance on the list) annual Trends Report are looking to pair their desire to relax and recharge with high-impact adventures and experiences to maximize their time and financial investment. Click here to read.

6. What Actually Happens At The Met Gala?

The Met Gala. A name synonymous with extravagant fashion, A-list celebrities, and an air of exclusivity. But what happens beyond the flash of cameras and the throngs on the red carpet? Click here to read.

7. All Our Eggs In One Basket

A software glitch earlier this year plunged the world into technological chaos, impacting flights, financial firms, news outlets, hospitals, businesses, and government agencies. In the aftermath, Delta Air Lines (DL) found itself under scrutiny as the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) launches an investigation into the airline’s handling of widespread flight cancellations following the outage. Click here to read.

8. The Future of Meetings: AI, Sustainability, and Appeasing Gen Z

The way we meet is evolving, and conference centers are taking note. According to a new report by the International Association of Conference Centers (IACC), the industry is embracing new technologies, adapting to changing attendee preferences, and prioritizing sustainability. Click here to read.

9. IAAC Creates Platform for Experiential Venues

In its second appearance on the list, the International Association of Conference Centers, (IACC) the global association representing the top 1% of small to midsize conference and meeting venues, has launched a brand-new membership category, "Experiential Venues," designed to cater to the growing demand for immersive and engaging event experiences. Click here to read.

10. AMEX Research: Tech is Revolutionizing the Events Industry

Get ready for a future where innovation steals the spotlight. That’s the message of The AMEX 2025 Global Meetings and Events Forecast. In an era where digital transformation is reshaping industries, the meetings and events sector is experiencing a significant evolution. Click here to read.

Any thoughts, opinions, or news? Please share them with me at vince@meetingsevents.com.

Photo by starline + freepik

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